PERFORMING arts students at a Stockton college are staging an unusual event at the Arc today.

The group from Stockton Riverside College will perform The Wrong Place - Back to the Hippodrome, as a reminder of the Hippodrome which stood on the site of the Arc.

The students have to conducted research into what the Hippodrome was like, the type of entertainment that was staged at the venue and how it engaged with local people.

During the performance, the students will be mingling with the audience and inviting anyone with memories to share in a discussion about the life and times of the old Hippodrome.

The performance is an element of Arc's education programme, in partnership with Stockton Riverside College, that serves to combine weekly classes in traditional arts centre pursuits such as acting and singing with leisure courses that include Tai Chi, Salsa, danceasize and meditation.

Education Director at the Arc, Mike McGrother, said: "We want to make this building a centre for the whole community. Arc is situated right in the heart of Stockton and therefore should be a focal point for local people to come and enjoy themselves.

"Through the involvement of Stockton Riverside College, the venue is home of one of only two Centres of Vocational Excellence in Performing Arts across the UK. This will ensure that as well as producing and presenting outstanding performances, training opportunities will be available including modern apprenticeships, full-time courses and work experience placements."

The performance begins at 7.30pm.To book, call the Arc Box Office on (01642) 525199.