Fourteen talented pupils from Lawn Manor Academy are gearing up for the opportunity of a lifetime as they prepare to perform on the world-renowned Times Square in New York next July. Representing Swindon and the UK, these young dancers will showcase their skills alongside international performers under the dazzling lights of this iconic location.
But with the costs of the trip totalling over £2,000 per pupil, the academy is reaching out to Swindon’s business community for support to help make their Broadway dreams a reality.
The performance is just part of their journey, as the students will also participate in an exclusive workshop led by a Broadway cast member to hone their dance skills and learn from some of the best in the industry. The choreography for their Times Square debut will begin after Christmas, marking the start of an intensive preparation process for this international show.
Head of Dance at Lawn Manor Academy, Natasha Dixon, expressed her excitement for this unique opportunity: “This is the first time Lawn Manor Academy has had the chance to take pupils to America. To perform in Times Square in front of hundreds of people is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I can’t wait to see the pupils’ faces as they take it all in.”
To reduce the financial burden on families, the school has planned several fundraising events, including a bake sale and a sponsored walk from Swindon to Marlborough and back. However, there is still a need for additional support to cover costs such as costumes and travel expenses.
Natasha added: “We’re appealing to local businesses to sponsor a pupil or contribute by providing clothing or equipment we’ll need for the trip. Any help will make a huge difference in bringing this dream to life for our young dancers.”
Businesses or organisations interested in supporting the academy’s efforts can contact Natasha Dixon on 01793 487286 or via email at admin@lma.ascendlearningtrust.org.uk.
Lawn Manor Academy, part of the Ascend Learning Trust, is proud to represent Swindon on the global stage. For more information about the academy, visit www.lawnmanor.org.
