STUDENTS at a Suffolk school have been given a masterclass in acting from two of the West End's finest.

Hollie-Rae Merrick

STUDENTS at a Suffolk school have been given a masterclass in acting from two of the West End's finest.

More than 40 students from St Joseph's College in Ipswich were given the chance to shine at a three- hour workshop with stage stars Ruthie Henshall and Tim Howar.

Lucy Bloore, the college's head of music, arranged the workshop to boost her students' knowledge of the theatre.

She said: “I'm relatively new to the school and I really wanted to make things like this happen more often.

“Ruthie and Tim both wanted to give something back to the students in the back and it's a really great way to inspire them and to give them an idea about what performance really is.”

The students, who make up the cast of the college's next musical production, All Shook Up, were invited to take part in the workshop as part of the ongoing rehearsal schedule.

After being put through their paces at the workshop, students will continue rehearsals up until their talents are showcased at the Riverside Theatre, Woodbridge, in February.

Ruthie, who lives near the Suffolk-Essex border, has starred in shows including Chicago, Les Miserables, Cats and Miss Saigon. Canadian performer, Tim Howar, is also famed for his work in the West End and Broadway - appearing in Rent, Peggy Sue Got Married.

College principal Sian Grant said: “I think it's fantastic that professional actors have given up their free time to come in and help the students build on their acting skills.

“It helps to give a little enthusiasm and it really boosts everyone's self esteem.”

All Shook Up, which is based on William Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, is a jukebox musical with Elvis Presley music. Tickets are available

The show is set to take place on February 24 and 25, with tickets available in the New Year from the theatre.