YMCA activity village in Newark, Nottinghamshire hosts a creative performance week with west end stars Lauren Byrne, Glyn Kerslake and Kirsty Ingram instructing

A creative performance week is currently taking place as part of the October half-term activities at the YMCA.

The week is an effort to foster creativity and provide accessible avenues for local youth to explore their artistic talents.

It is running Monday to Friday this week at the YMCA Activity Village in Newark and will operate from 9am to 3pm.

Limited spaces are still available, contact the YMCA on 01636233125 for more details.

It is an incredible opportunity for children to explore and develop their creative talents, said a YMCA spokesman.

"We believe that every child should have the chance to shine, and that is why this week is open to all children," said Christina Riley, the Creative Programme Coordinator at YMCA Creative Academy.

The week-long event promises an unforgettable experience for young artists and performers.

It is a subsidised opportunity for local children to delve into the world of creative arts said the YMCA spokesman.

Performance Week provides children with exclusive access to workshops led by industry professionals, including West End stars.

Renowned experts, who have graced London's West End stages, are guiding young talents throughout the week.

Lauren Byrne, celebrated for her contributions to musical theatre, kicked off the week with a workshop on acting through song yesterday (Monday).

The session featured beloved tunes from the iconic musical Matilda.

"This week is about nurturing young performers and providing them with the tools to express themselves through the magic of musical theatre," said Lauren.

On Tuesday, the spotlight turned to Glyn Kerslake, a distinguished West End talent, who is hosting a singing workshop.

Participants will dive into songs from renowned musicals such as Les Misérables, Miss Saigon, and Phantom of the Opera.

Glyn emphasised the transformative power of music and said:

"Singing is a universal language that allows children to discover and convey emotions uniquely."

Kirsty Ingram, a star of musical theatre renowned for her roles in productions like Hairspray will lead the session tomorrow (Wednesday). Kirsty will guide participants in a dance and musical theatre workshop inspired by the hit show Hairspray.

"Dance is a beautiful form of self-expression that can boost confidence and creativity in young minds," said Kirsty.

The pinnacle of Performance Week will be a showcase performance.

On Friday, parents, carers, grandparents, and friends are invited to witness the transformation of these young talents as they perform.

"We wanted to ensure that finances were not a barrier to pursuing a love for the arts," said the spokesman from the YMCA.

"In partnership with The Zone Youth Project, the YMCA was excited to share this opportunity.

"It was made possible with help from the Nottinghamshire County Council’s Local Communities Fund."