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“Dazzled by the talent!”

Last weekend, Turning Pointe School of Dance packed out Clair Hall in Haywards Heath for its three performances of ‘Razzle Dazzle’. Pupils from Haywards Heath and Lewes displayed their vast array of talents, part dancing/part treading the boards as they took the audience on a musical journey, from Lloyd Webber to the best of the new West End musicals.

What struck even the most impartial of spectators was the professionalism and grace of the production. 150 pupils aged between 6 and 20 performed a feast of dances inspired by musical theatre ranging from exquisite ballet, energetic tap and lively street dance. From the classic and lively Oliver and The Sound of Music to the sultry Chicago, haunting Cats and infectious ‘Expressing yourself’ from Billy Elliot, there was something that even the most closet of musicals fans could relate to. Express themselves they certainly did, as the show gave all of the pupils a chance to shine, uncovering an extraordinary amount of talent beyond their dancing skills in the process, incorporating acting and singing pieces amongst the dances. Even the smash hit West end musical Matilda leant its new brand of musical styling to the finale of the show, including the unique number, Revolting Children. At their age revolting they should be, but what beautiful dancers, singers and importantly, performers they all were throughout the two and a half hour show.

The costumes, staging and choreography were equally breath-taking, moving and delighted the audiences. Following in the Turning Pointe tradition of exceptional productions, Razzle Dazzle was a first class display of what children can achieve when teaching is excellent and high expectations are set. To single anyone out would not do justice to how well each and every performer did, but what I would say is that the future is very bright if this is the standard by which we should now compare all others.

Lianne Carter, Assistant Principal of the dance school worked tirelessly to direct and produce this stunning show. Her passion for dance and infectious energy inspires all the performers to be the best they can be. It is little wonder that Turning Pointe School of Dance continues to turn out bright young stars, underpinned by their excellent record of success of helping students achieve places at prestigious institutions such as White Lodge, the ENB and the Brit School, as well as roles in the West End.

From a parent’s perspective, it is amazing to see your child enjoying themselves so much and the confidence and belief in themselves that the environment at Turning Pointe gives them. Julia Canneaux has been Principal of the school for 25 years now, and it just seems to be going from strength to strength.

To use the words of My Fair Lady, truly ‘I could have danced all night’.