THE future looks bright for two talented teenagers who have been invited to join a prestigious dance company.

Aiden Hadley, 18, and Kian Crabtree, 17, from Tony Leadership Academy, auditioned in June to win places at the Leeds-based Phoenix Dance Theatre Company’s youth academy.

Aiden and Kian found the audition a challenging experience, but one they embraced.

“The day was such an amazing experience and I have never been so challenged,” said Aiden, who has just left Tong Leadership Academy after completing his A-levels.

“I am hoping that working with Phoenix Youth Academy will give me the experience and provide opportunities that will guide me towards my goals.”

Kian, a Year 12 pupil, added: “I really enjoyed the experience of working alongside so many talented dancers.

“It made me realise that I am going to need to work really hard, but I am definitely excited and up for the challenge.”

Sally Harington, performing arts curriculum leader at Tong Leadership Academy, said: “To be a part of the Phoenix Youth Academy is a real achievement and I am so proud that two of our students have been given this amazing opportunity.

“I know Aiden and Kian will thoroughly enjoy the experience over the next 12 months, and I am very much looking forward to watching their future performances.”

Phoenix Youth Academy offers a training programme for talented young dancers aged between 13 and 19 who are interested in pursuing dance as a career.

The programme allows students to develop their contemporary dance technique through working with recognised choreographers and Phoenix Dance Theatre’s company dancers.

Both Kian and Aiden were among performers in Tong Leadership Academy’s performing arts showcase, an end-of-year event for the secondary school’s pupils and their parents.

The showcase event, held earlier this month at the Westgate Hill Street school, was a culmination of the academic year’s performing arts activities. Performances included the Rock Challenge piece Bedlam, a drama piece based on the 1969 Ken Loach film Kes, a musical theatre piece, and a Michael Jackson tribute. Performing arts pupils from Year 7 to Year 13 took to the stage for the event.

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