ASPIRING performers can hone their skills at a host of summer schools in coming weeks.

Theatrical summer schools for children are taking place across East Lancashire, with courses in musical theatre and drama.

Oswaldtwistle-based ReAct Academy is five-day courses at Civic Arts Centre, Oswaldtwistle, from August 20, and at Jubilee Dance Studios, Ramsbottom, from August 28.

Principal Cassandra Webster said: “Our Show-Stoppers Summer School is an exciting week of drama, dance and singing for ages six to 18, ending with a spectacular show for family and friends, including songs Hairspray, Dreamgirls, Wicked and more.

For more details call 01254 883692 or email info@reactacademy.co.uk.

At St Mary’s College, Blackburn, The Drama Circle is giving some well-known stories a new modern ‘twist’ in its Twisted Tales Summer Theatre Week, from Monday to Friday, August 10, for children aged seven to 14.

Claire Haymes said: The first four days will be workshops in singing, dance and drama where we will work on developing a script to perform to an audience. On Friday we will put the whole performance together in front of an audience.”

Email info@thedramacircle. co.uk for more information.

At Thwaites Empire Theatre, Polka Dot Pantomimes has two weeks planned for seven to 18-year-olds, staging West End Workshops based on Annie, from Monday, and Wicked from August 20. Details available by calling 01254 685500.

And the Bernese School of Theatre Dance and Drama runs its annual Funky Fusion sessions, based on The Wizard Of Oz at the same venue.