STAGE IS SET: Musical theatre teacher Jane O’Byrne with students William Cockerill, Esme Brien, Grace Hamilton, Amelia Robison and Elizabeth Richards
STAGE IS SET: Musical theatre teacher Jane O’Byrne with students William Cockerill, Esme Brien, Grace Hamilton, Amelia Robison and Elizabeth Richards

PUBLIC demand has seen the return of a dale musical theatre group which was disbanded about a year ago.

The group, aimed at children aged eight to 12, was hugely popular when it was held at The Hub, Barnard Castle, but it had to close when they lost their instructor.

Now the facility’s vocal coach Jane O'Byrne has relaunched the group and already six children have signed up.

The Hub’s chief executive Rachel Tweddle said: “The children really enjoyed it and parents have been asking for it to come back. We need more children to come along because you need more to put a show on.”

The youngsters are learning a variety of tunes and dances, including items from Hairspray and Queen.

Nine-year-old Elizabeth Richards, who has already been practising for a few weeks, said: “I quite like it because it is quite free and we get to choose our own routines.”

Their tutor added: “We are doing excerpts from different shows so every child gets to opportunity to shine.”

The musical theatre group meets every Friday. For more information contact The Hub on 01833 690150.