COMEDIENNE Nuala McKeever was in town this week to promote a series of innovative workshops aimed at young people looking to develop skills in the arts.

Mrs McKeever was joined at the Alley Theatre on Monday by a host of actors and artists who used the day to pass on their skills and industry secrets to over 100 pupils from across the Strabane District.

During the 'Making Connections' programme, pupils developed their writing skills for drama and were shown the planning required in putting together a drama production. They also received tips and encouragement on how to take their original work forward and how to lay down a music track for television or theatre using different rhythms and voice techniques.

Commenting on the day's events, Mrs McKeever said, "Both Andrea Montgomery and I are delighted to have been invited to this wonderful event in the new Alley Theatre and we are now terribly excited about coming back soon to the Alley with our new comedy 'That Irish Show' on November 23. To have the chance to take a break from rehearsals and spend a day taking part in the Making Connections work shops has been truly inspiring and I congratulate the organisers for providing such an inspirational day for young people."

One of the highlights of the day was a music session led by director Anthony Toner.

He said, "I've been locked in the studio a great deal over the last few weeks, working on a new album and developing the music for That Irish Show, so today has been a very refreshing day with some great examples of high energy music being produced. I am extremely excited about the musical development taking place today and the Making Connections event, as it allows students to have their first real opportunity to work within a music studio. I really hope all of the workshops on today acts as a catalyst in the hearts of the young participants for further exploration in the arts," he said.

Strabane District Council's Arts Development Officer added: "The day has provided a unique insight for the pupils about developing skills and maybe careers within the arts industry, which is now one of the fastest growing industries in the UK. I would like to thank all of artists involved in the workshops, including Nuala McKeever, who I can't wait to see live at the Alley in November."

For further information about Nuala McKeever's That Irish Show on November 23, please contact the Alley Box Office on 028 7138 4444.