A well-established East Kilbride performing arts centre is in the running for a top award.
Shona Halford MTDA is a finalist in this year's ‘What's On 4 Kids Activities Awards’, which is open to organisations across the UK.
The school began in 2005 and was founded by Shona, who worked as a professional dancer and singer from the age of 17.
And she and three of her teachers - Emily Halford, Laura Carbery and Craig McDougall - will travel to London's Mercedes-Benz World on October 19 for the glittering awards bash and will be joined by an array of VIP guests.
The awards were launched 16 years ago to showcase the UK's best children’s clubs, classes, leaders, venues and volunteers, with the experts - parents and carers – nominating and voting for their favourites.
Shona Halford MTDA, who are based at EK's Langlands Gate, are a finalist in the Most Loved Music, Dance or Performing Arts Activity Franchisor or Independent with Six to 20 Leaders Overall category.
She said: "We are delighted to be finalists for the 'What’s On 4 Kids Awards 2022' and would like to thank everyone who voted for our school.
"We are overwhelmed to learn that MTDA has been successful in reaching the top five nominees across the UK.
"Our dedicated team are looking forward to attending this prestigious event and can’t wait to see what the future holds for our theatre school."
Shona added: "It would be the icing on the cake to come away with the award but just to reach the finals is incredible. We get nominated every year but this is the first year we have reached the finals.
"I have been a professional dancer and singer since the age of 17 and travelled the world before setting up the school.
"The students, aged from four to 18, get an insight from someone who has been there and got the T-shirt and knows what it's like to get a job in the industry.
"We have a great team and the kids absolutely love it. We are currently rehearsing for pantomime season."
These are the only awards dedicated to this sector with both ‘Judged’ and ‘Voted for’ categories and the 2022 event welcomes new Judge, Sarah Jane Honeywell – founder of the Curious Theatre School, TV star and actor as seen both in the West End and off Broadway.
Organisers are also delighted to welcome back awards host Jonathan Bremner.
The acclaimed actor, musician, singer and presenter wowed X-Factor Judges and will soon be appearing on the Big Screen in the epic Warner Bros. underwater adventure Aquaman 2.
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