It all began in 2005 when well known local actor, director and tutor Jo Fisher (Waterloo Rd, The Lowry, Kelloggs, BBC Radio Manchester, Channel M) decided to open her very own school in Stretford, offering professional standard, affordable acting, singing and dancing tuition to 4 -16yrs olds.

The school's reputation spread and in January 2009, Jo opened her second school, this time in Prestwich with a phenomenal turn-out of over 300 people at the launch. In September 2009, a superb ‘Streetdance marquee and pool party’ was attended by hoards of families who enjoyed the Cheshire sunshine whilst enrolling in our new south-Manchester school. January 2010 sees the launch of our brand new school in Worsley.

Since it’s opening Footlights has gone from strength to strength,  boasting a string of successes for the children and staff alike, such as appearances on BBC’s Waterloo Road, Channel 4’s Shameless, adverts for Macdonalds, Irwins Bakery, Rice Krispies  and Iceland as well as films - one of our boys  even starred alongside Jonny Vegas! The theatre is no safe place either when we’re about! Last year alone some of our children starred and appeared in ‘Oliver’ at the Middleton Arena, ‘Macbeth’ in Heaton Park, and ‘Snow White’ in Burnley. All our children at Footlights performed at The Lowry Theatre, Salford Quays in July 2009 raising money for Bury Cancer Support. They have also donated to ‘Wish upon a Star’, ‘Manchester Kids’ and the Macmillan Nurses.

Achievements

We have had so many great experiences over the past years, with many of our children appearing professionally on stage, tv and film, as well as in-house productions.

In July 2009 our children and young people performed at the renowned 'Lowry Theatre' where they raised £750 for a local cancer charity.  We also achieved a 100% pass rate in our first year entering the prestigious LAMDA examinations, where one of our groups, Footlights 1 (aged 6-8yr olds), all received Distinctions in Musical Theatre.

Altogether the children and staff have raised approx £2500 in charitable donations.

The staff also have many achievements to boast of - read their profiles to find out more.