A NEW performing arts school is set to open in Northwich next month.

On January 27, the Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) will launch at The Grange Junior School, in Beechwood Avenue, Hartford, where it will operate on subsequent Saturdays.

PQA Northwich will be a dedicated performing arts school, with classes for children and young adults in comedy and drama; musical theatre (singing and dancing); and film and television.

And to show parents and children in the town what the PQA is all about, the academy will be holding a free open day on its launch date.

Excited principal Kimberley Baker, who has joined the Northwich team after successfully running PQA Leeds-Bradford, said: "We can’t wait to bring our academy to the Northwich area and make Saturdays the best day of the week.

"We’re thrilled to be at The Grange Junior School every Saturday morning.

"Whether you’ve got a budding West End star, film director, or you’re just looking to build your child’s confidence and make friends with like-minded people, we’ve got something for everyone.

"Each week students have sessions in comedy and drama, musical theatre and film and television, led by our fantastic team of industry teachers and teaching assistants.

"We are always working on exciting projects which feature our students performing in a variety of different roles, in musicals, plays, and films. We'd love to welcome you to come along and see what we're all about."

The PQA was founded by Birds of a Feather actor Pauline Quirke in 2007 when she was unable to find a performing arts school for her son Charlie she believed would offer him the opportunity to fulfil his potential.

In the years since, the PQA has grown, setting up more than 200 academies across the country.

PQA Northwich will run each Saturday from January 27 at The Grange Junior School.

Classes for children and young adults, aged between six and 18, will run between 10am and 1pm, with a 'Poppets' class, for ages four to five, running from 10am to 11.30am. 

For more information, visit pqacademy.com or email kim.baker@pqacademy.com.