ARTS has given me lots of opportunities to perform on stage. I have been in 8 amazing ARTS shows starting with Calendar Girl, where I was an elf and I dropped my blow-up hammer! I have danced in London at Sadler’s Wells, The Royal Albert Hall and Shaftesbury Theatre. The first time was dancing to Boogie Nights at Sadler’s Wells when I was only 7. I loved it!

I was a Munchkin (sorry Adella!!) in the ARTS performance of The Wizard of Oz at Norwich Playhouse where I have also danced with the Chicago Blues Brothers for the last 3 years.

When I was younger I danced with the Onward Players for two of their annual pantomimes of Sinbad the Sailor and Puss in Boots which I really enjoyed and, hopefully, I will get to do again one day.

Two years ago I auditioned for the English Youth Ballet for a part in their production of Coppelia at the Theatre Royal. I was lucky enough to be chosen along with lots of other girls from ARTS and it was an amazing experience. I hope to audition again next year when they return to Norwich. In the same year I was part of the ARTS street dance team who came second in the newcomer category for the Eastern Region.

Currently I am in my first year at East Norfolk Sixth Form College in Gorleston studying for my A-levels in PE, human biology, ICT and history. Within my PE course I study dancing. I also belong to the cheerleading squad where we learn dance routines and gymnastics.

In the future I plan to go to university to train as a primary school teacher but I will always carry on with my dancing. I am currently studying for my first student teaching exam, in Freestyle/disco, and I would love to eventually become a fully qualified dance teacher. 

ARTS is such a great environment. As people have said before it is like a family. I have been coming here for nearly 12 years and I have enjoyed everything that I have done. It has increased my self confidence and given me the chance to make new friends. Even dance exams, which seem so stressful, are good preparation for all the GCSEs and other school exams.

I know lots of the younger pupils at ARTS through being a student teacher but if I don’t know you come and say hello. I am looking forward to getting to know even more of you over the next year. Don’t be shy because I am always happy to help.
Bethany x

Click on a link to read about the previous Head Girls who also fulfilled this demanding role.