A GROUP of performing arts students are busy preparing for a Broadway song and dance spectacular.

It is 10 years since Tanwood School for Performing Arts staged 42nd Street and the youngsters from the group’s youth theatre are spending almost their entire Easter break rehearsing hard for their opening night.

Director Pollyann Tanner, 55, said: “It will be a marvellous occasion with young people’s energy all coming together. To see their talents being celebrated will be extremely rewarding.

“A lot of performers of the school have gone on to the West End and we pride ourselves on giving them the opportunity to reach their full potential.

“My passion now is to give my knowledge and experience to young people who aspire to be in the theatre but also to supply them with the real experience, so they will have an idea of what to expect and the hard work it takes.”

The former theatre actress added she always preferred putting a show together to being on stage.

Billed as the school’s next big blockbuster, the show features big dance numbers like We’re In The Money and Lullaby Of Broadway performed by students aged 10 to 21 who were chosen following auditions in December.

Backed by a live professional orchestra, the show comes in the wake of other big productions, including Footloose, Cats and West Side Story.

The theatre group stages two productions each year and brings in professional scenery and costumes to give the young performers the full effect of a major show.

They take to the stage at the Wyvern Theatre on April 13 and 14.

Tickets are available online at swindontheatres.co.uk but to win a family ticket for two adults and two children, answer the question: What is the main song from 42nd Street?

Entries must include your name, address, telephone number and email address and should be submitted to SA Tanwood Competition, 100 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 3BE.

The closing date is April 12, one winner will be selected at random from correct entries. No cash alternative. Newsquest does not accept responsibility should the concert be cancelled for any reason.

For full terms visit: newsquest.co.uk/terms