IT'LL be lights, camera, action all the way over the next six weeks, with several opportunities to get involved in Strabane's amateur dramatics scene.
The town has a lengthy and distinguished history in the performing arts. From the annual drama festival to the old Tops of the Town frolics, Strabane has never been found wanting in the acting and singing department.
And if you've ever looked up at the stage and thought 'I could do that', well now really is you chance, regardless of age.
The first opportunity is offered by the PuddleAlley Theatre group who, from this Saturday, will be running a series of professional performance workshops at the Alley Theatre.
Young people interested in the world of theatre can attend the weekly workshops. These will culminate in a production of 'The Sound of the Musicals', containing extracts from stage hits Grease and Blood Brothers.
A PuddleAlley spokesperson said: "For three ours per week, students will learn to express themselves more easily, gain poise, self-confidence and self awareness. These skills will naturally cater for young people who are keen to improve on their stage skills and have a desire to train for a stage or media career. However, we are also anxious to cater for those young people who wish to expore the world of theatre and would like to stretch themselves, make new friends, learn new skills and discover how much they can grow while they take part in a major musical performance in the Alley Theatre," they said.
Registration for PuddleAlley's Youth Group Workshops/rehearsals will take place this Saturday from 10am to 1pm and will be on a first come, first served basis.
The second opportunity for Strabane's youth to get up there and strutt their stuff is with the local Drama Academy.
Aimed at boys and girls aged from seven to eighteen, the Acadamy aims to build confidence and communication skills in a relaxed and entertaining setting.
For more information on the Drama Academy, contact Stella Sharkey on 02871 381794.
The final chance to get involved in the local amateur dramatics scene comes from Strabane District Council.
On October 26, auditions will be held at the Alley for all age groups wishing to be part of the theatre's first ever pantomime.
A professional director, singing coach, choreographer and design and technical crew will work with the cast to create an original family pantomime, while there will be opportunities to get behind the scenes and learn how it is done from the experts. For more information contact Jean Smyth on 02871 382204.
So if you've always fancied yourself as a bit of a De Niro or looked at Broadway and thought 'that's for me', there really has never been a better time to get out there and break a leg.
