A PROFESSIONAL theatre company is aiming to build on its previous successes by the creation of a GNVQ course in performing arts.

The Small Fire Leaders Course by Theatre Cap-a-Pie, in Lanchester, County Durham, has enjoyed great success in helping unemployed people of all ages and backgrounds back into employment, using theatre and the arts as a catalyst.

The new, one-year GNVQ course, will be available to school leavers and adults and would act as a stepping stone to higher education.

Students will learn about job opportunities in the performing arts, as well as developing their own performance skills.

They will also have the opportunity to take part in at least two large-scale professional productions while working with young people in a variety of locations to help them produce performances of their own

Recent productions include Peter Pan and Hal, which played at the Newcastle Playhouse and Stanley Civic Hall.

The theatre company's training manager, Kevin Wilkins, said: "We believe that we've created a really innovative course here at Cap-a-Pie.

"Students get the unique chance to work as part of a professional theatre company, which equips them to go into employment within the entertainment industry."

The theatre group is supported by a number of organisations and has close links with Derwentside District Council.

Theatre Cap-a-Pie will be running courses from July, September and January.

For further details of the courses telephone Mr Wilkins on (01207) 520011.