Performing arts college ready to open

Arts North Studios, based in Sunderland, will officially open next week

A new performing arts college is set to open with the aim of offering professional training to young people.

Arts North Studios will be based at the Fire Station in Sunderland and is to provide various courses, from BTECs to eventually BA (Hons) degrees.

Led by West End performer, associate director and choreographer, Annie Guy, the training will be provided in partnership with Culture Quarter and in collaboration with Sunderland College.

The college will officially open next week.

The facilities include dance and rehearsal studios, changing rooms, study and co-working areas, as well as access to the Fire Station's 550-seat performance space.

Ms Guy, whose credits include Hairspray, West Side Story and Joseph, said: "I have a huge passion for bringing top-quality West End training to young people in the north-east of England.

"Originally from the North East myself, I am dedicated to giving as many opportunities and passing on my experience to young people in this field as possible."

The college will initially offer a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Musical Theatre and an Advanced One-Year Intensive in Musical Theatre.

Plans are also under way for a BA (Hons) Degree in Musical Theatre, expanding into Acting for Stage and Screen and Technical Theatre.

Mike Chapman, Sunderland College's Bede Campus Principal, said the college would "transform performing arts education in the North East".

"Arts North Studios will not only enhance training opportunities within the performing arts industry but also contribute to an exciting new era for arts, performance and music in Sunderland - empowering the next generation of creative talent to thrive locally and globally," he said.