An intensive week-long workshop course is giving Suffolk children the opportunity to sharpen their acting, dancing and singing skills with the crème de la crème of performing arts.

The summer theatre school, which is held at Ipswich Corn Exchange, is in its debut year and is put together by the producers of Ipswich Regent Theatre’s seasonal pantomimes, Enchanted Entertainment.

Director Guy Pascall, who has more than 15 years of experience in the business, said: “It’s all about confidence building; it’s not just about being a star, it all starts with confidence.

“Some were so shy on Monday but even after a couple of days their parents have seen a change in them.”

The group will put on two performances on Saturday, lasting two hours each, which are a collaboration of timeless favourites such as Matilda, We Will Rock You, Fame, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Annie.

“We have got to be tough; if they want a role then they have to audition for it,” added Mr Pascall. “They are disappointed if they don’t get it but that’s performing arts and they have to be tough skinned.”

The workshops are split into three areas, with Kerry Blaskett teaching dance, Jezz Weatherall as singing coach and Mr Pascall on acting.

Lilli, eight, said her favourite part of the week had been meeting new friends and doing lots of dancing.

She said: “First of all I thought acting was just saying words but I found out it’s also about reacting to other people.”

Nine-year-old Elizabeth has been inspired to carry on performing and said she had signed up to another show in November with Woodbridge- based amateur musical theatre society, Company of Four.

Children from the age of eight to 14 at a range of abilities are attending the workshops and more confident members will be performing solos and duets on Saturday.

Eight-year-old Aleyah said: “My favourite part has been the dancing. I’ve always loved dancing because it is so fun and it just makes me feel free.”

She added that spending the week working hard from nine to five had been much more enjoyable than sitting around on the sofa.