DANCERS from Newport showcased their skills at a festival at the Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre on Friday, April 5, writes Jen Mills.

Around 150 students from Stage Struck, Funky Monkey Fit, Bella Bella Dance Studios and other dance schools in the city took to the stage from 6pm to 8pm.

The project was part of the Positive Futures programme, set up to ensure young people have alternatives to crime and substance abuse.

A total of 13 young people had the chance to gain a dance leader's level two qualification through teaching dance classes.

Budding teachers performed alongside their students in the festival, which was the culmination of months of work.

Students taking the course had to learn first aid as well as choreography and teaching. They are now qualified to teach their own dance classes.

Dancers ranged from toddlers to adults in the energetic evening which included street dance, cheerleading, tap, ballet, jazz and fitness dancing.

Young children ballet danced dressed as penguins as part of the show.

Emma Goodwin, who started the course in February, said: "We had to put the festival together as part of our graduation. It has been a lot of work and a big learning curve."

Positive Futures began in Newport in 2002. It is funded by the Home Office and managed through Newport council. Anyone aged 10 to 19 living in Newport can use the service.

For more information, call the Positive Futures sports development officer on 01633 656757.