BASICS Junior Theatre group in Burnley has long been the training ground for many a successful actor's top stage career in the West End and beyond.

One such novice was Burnley actress Helen Ternent, who is currently appearing as Francine - Frankie Valli's daughter - in the record-breaking musical Jersey Boys currently showing at the Piccadilly Theatre in London.

Now the theatre group is extending its repertoire of classes to get talented kids moving to music in a way that will impress the casting directors of the future.

Helen Cheung, Principal of Encore Dance School and Basics' resident choreographer will be introducing an Audition Technique class on Mondays to help students secure theatre roles.

Says Basics' Principal, Andrew Cooke: "This is for any young person who is thinking of auditioning for theatre school. It's a must. Knowing how to sit an audition successfully can make all the difference. All our graduates last year were trained by Helen and all successfully gained entry into theatre schools the length and breadth of the country. Boys who don't dance NEED to do this class also, to give them the edge at audition. It's open to anyone."

Helen is running a musical theatre class which teaches stage presentation and performance skills as well as a wide variety of dance techniques.

Says Andrew: "It's great for those who have good vocals but lack the dancing skills. Attention to detail is key on stage and this class will offer students the performance skills and techniques that will help them deliver a show-stopping performance."

Qualified fitness instructor and ex-Basics pupil Lianne Hill is also offering cheerleading classes on Thursdays as well as her fitness classes on Tuesdays.

The classes will involve learning the basics of cheerleading with routines to music as part of a team. Lianne aims to put her students into competitions and events. "Cheerleading is a fantastic way of keeping fit and having fun at the same time," says Andrew.

Basics also offers Zumba and Fitmix - a high energy cardio-aerobics mash-up for legs , bums and tums.

The classes are open to ages 6-17.

Visit Basics' website for further information: basicsjuniortheatre.co.uk or call 07766 743934 to discuss the options available to youngsters with theatre aspirations.