Stardom Performing Arts Ltd

I return to this page to share sad news I never thought I would have to share. This week we sadly lost an incredible woman who gave so much to stardom for a vast number of years, as a parent, an assistant, an organiser, safeguarder and principal. Karen was kindhearted and hilarious and truly a force of nature. So many things at stardom had her stamp all over them especially in its later years. When I arrived as a young teacher, she assisted me and nurtured me, keeping me calm when I made mistakes and educating me on how to not make them again. When she took charge of the school, she was a kind and caring boss who cared so much for the children and their families. She entrusted the school to me to run and made the handover so easy. I wasn’t the most organised of people and I think Karen knew this so she provided me with all her organising secrets.

Most importantly. She was a friend. Always there with a hug, a funny anecdote or a safety pin.

The stardom family sends all our love to her son and fellow stardom legend Harry. Thank you Karen for everything. 🕊️ 🌟

An unofficial farewell to stardom this week as I was honoured to share the stage with some of my fantastic students who have amazed me in haos production of school of rock this week.

We have been supported by lots of stardom friends old and new throughout the week.

Our last star has burnt out but as science tells us stars continue to shine long after their goodbye and I know for certain that is what our stardom students past and present will continue to do.

Keep shining

Thank you

Goodbye 🌟

So I’ve avoided writing this post as I knew I would struggle to find the words. Sadly we have recently had to make the decision to close the doors at stardom. This was a tough and painful decision but sadly one that had to be made as we continue to face problems beyond our control (covid/lockdowns and on-line teaching being just a few) but finally the cost of living crisis and rising of costs has led to the final call.

For me stardom has been part of my life for 7 years, 4 as drama teacher then 3 as principal. For some of the children still in attendance it has been a part of their lives for even longer. I have worked with countless colleagues who have made this journey particularly special and I thank them all for their friendship and hard work providing quality education and theatre fun. There are far too many to the but if you have played even a minor part in any stardom class or show know I owe you my deepest gratitude.

It feels like nearly every day I come into contact with people who have. A connection to this amazing school and I have loved hearing those stories and connections. It has been a challenge, an honour and a privilege to be the principal here these last few years but I wouldn’t be here alone. I have been standing on the shoulders of giants, firstly Karen Illingsworth and Harry Illingsworth who handed over the reigns to me after many fun years working together. But then one special lady who made the first steps to create what has become a legendary school in the local area. Liz Davies (who I can’t seem to tag 😩😩😩). Your idea blossomed into a thriving school that has fed the Halifax and Bradford musical and theatre scene with countless new performers. We have enjoyed countless performances in countless venues most notably our time at the Victoria theatre. I thank you so much for bringing me on this journey and taking a chance on a young teacher just out of university.

We have one session left this Saturday but tonight I have been able to share fond memories with some of my oldest students. We have eaten cake and toasted the moment. We used to always close our razzle
Dazzle shows with a very special song and we listened to it one last time tonight.
Please let me share it with you.

Thanks for all the memories but for now this is Todd over and out.
Xx

Star maker.... The kids from Fame...with Lyrics I think out of all of the fame series,anyone who watched it remembers this.... .such a lovely song and very meaningful ..my only complaint is when the guy wh...

🌟I got to observe dance classes tonight and watching the seniors take one of their older dances and develop it further using skills they’ve learned along the way has been such a proud moment for me. It was especially special watching them nurture and guide each other on sections they weren’t clear or confident on. Great work guys 🌟

Happy new year to friends old and new. So excited to get back to classes tonight. Have you got a child who is interested in the world of theatre, maybe they fancy learning new skills and making nee friends along the way. Contact us for a free trial and keep your eyes peeled for some exciting deals coming your way. Email [email protected]

Time to say a massive congratulations to lauren who gave birth to a gorgeous healthy girl this weekend. Sending all our love. The kids will be so excited

Happy birthday to our fab colleague Lauren!!

Dance teacher Lauren goes in maternity leave this weeks nd she couldn’t leave her Saturday class without teaching them some Christmas party moves. My singing group decided they wanted to join in with the youngsters as well. Good to see the classics are still the best

🌟 Our little stardom scarecrows have grownup and graduated this summer meaning we’re looking for some new faces to join our tots class. A perfect introduction to the world of theatre and performing arts. We are taking applications from 3-5 years of age. Running in Northowram on Saturday mornings. Is you child a born superstar? 🌟