For those with a passion for performing arts, a theatre school has a prestigious scholarship worth up to £855.

“We are so proud to once again offer these prestigious scholarships in association with The Stage newspaper,” said Matty Aitchison–Rayson, principal of Razzamataz West Cumbria.

“It’s been particularly challenging for business with all the lockdowns, but we were all determined that our students and young people in the community would not miss out on this wonderful opportunity.

“Although the impact of Covid has hit small businesses like ours very hard, we felt that it was important to continue to offer as many opportunities as possible to support young people who have had to show incredible resilience over the last year and a half.

“A huge congratulations to our scholarship winner Lacie and runners up Brooke and Arien.”

Each applicant filmed themselves doing a short performing arts piece of their choosing.

Lacie impressed the judges with a portrayal of Matilda’s When I Grow Up and the judges were impressed with her diction throughout the performance.

Arien performed a section from Macavity the Mystery Cat from Cats the Musical, the judges were very impressed by Arien’s confidence and commitment to the song.

Brooke from their Seniors group delivered a performance which the judges described as a great piece showcasing a natural and confident actress with lovely pace and tempo throughout.

The scholarships were open to all young people between the ages of six to 18.

Matty added: “The performing arts is a wonderful but competitive career and our students have proved that they have the resilience to work their way through the difficult times.

“We know what a positive impact that the performing arts can offer all children so we are so pleased that we have continued this exceptional offer.”

As well as the financial incentives, the auditions gave students something positive to look forward to, performing arts professionals helped to make the difficult judging decisions, giving students the opportunity to stretch themselves and aim high.

Razzamataz West Cumbria is part of a multi-award-winning theatre school franchise, teaching thousands of children.

It has seen first-hand how performing arts can transform young people’s lives.

With the focus now firmly on children’s physical and mental health, we have more demand than ever before.

Matty said: “We have talked for years about how important the arts are for children.

“Our classes help to develop confidence, teamwork, resilience and can help with both physical and mental health.

“The lockdowns have really shined a light on the fact that more needs to be done in these areas so we are really delighted to be part of the movement to promote the arts.”

The stage scholarship is just one of the ways in which Razzamataz helps support and nurture young talent.

There are lots of plans for masterclasses with industry experts in theatre, musicals and TV as well as performing opportunities.