I have been coming to ARTS since I was 3 years old and have enjoyed many amazing experiences in this time. I come to ARTS to improve my dance and singing skills but also to meet new people and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. My favourite thing about ARTS is the fun weekly classes led by friendly teachers who give you lots of encouragement and bring out the best in you.
 
One way I improve my dancing is by doing exams. I have done many exams whilst at ARTS, with each bringing more experience and confidence. I prefer doing award exams to grade exams as they examine your performance more than technique. I like doing exams, even though they can be nerve-wracking!
 
The thing I enjoy most is performing, in the annual shows that we do at the Hewitt School and the one-off performances in the Royal Albert Hall. A show I really enjoyed was the Blues Brothers. The first time ARTS performed in the show, I went to watch. I loved it, and very much wanted to perform in it if the opportunity came around again. Luckily, it did, twice, and they were two of the most fun performances I have done!
 
My favourite annual show was Legends as I made some really close friends, got to sing a solo in the finale and won the scholarship! I was so honoured to be presented with this award as I admire so many people who had won it previously.
 
My favourite one-off performance has to be The Stars In The Round at the Royal Albert Hall, where we performed Music by John Miles. I was only 9 years old and one of the youngest in the group. The performance was very memorable especially as I had a headset microphone, which was very exciting!
 
Without ARTS, I never would have been able to experience such brilliant opportunities. I dance and sing mostly for the enjoyment and thrill of performing, and ARTS has certainly provided that.
 
Becky Syder, Aged 15