A HEREFORDSHIRE arts school is looking to encourage the children of the county to express themselves and build confidence through music and theatre.

One Vision School of Arts, based in Leominster, has been running in the north Herefordshire town since 2018.

The school offers musical theatre classes, acting, vocal coaching, dance and also takes students through their LAMDA performance exams.

Created to provide the town and its surrounding areas with a wide variety of performing arts opportunities, the school looks to provide a local, and affordable alternative to the usual avenues into the industry.

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The school has hosted masterclasses from a wealth of talent from the showbiz world including Hollywood actor Adam Garcia, Pop Idol finalist Gareth Gates, Britain's Got Talent winner George Sampson and West End leading lady Kerry Ellis.

Owner Melissa Kings has a wealth of experience in the performing arts sector and opened the school in 2018 with the intention of helping others express themselves through music, dance and theatre.

She has directed shows for Manchester’s Musical Theatre Society, taught classes across the northwest and worked with ITV, Sky One and actors including David Bradley, Sally Lindsay and Suranne Jones.

Mrs Kings said: "Performing arts are so important for many reasons. It helps give young people the confidence to speak in public, to express themselves freely and to interact better with others.

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"It improves mental health by decreasing social anxiety, releasing negativity and stress and most of all, its lots of fun.

"We hope to give students a sense of belonging and also hope that they build life-long friendships in an encouraging and supportive environment where they can express themselves freely."

The school's latest upcoming production is a version of West End favourite Matilda, based on the ever popular Roald Dahl children's book in their biggest performance to date.

They are currently starting rehearsals ahead of the performances to be held at Earl Mortimer College in February 2023.

Sophie Gwilliam, 16, who has been attending the school since it opened in 2018 said: "I have loved every single moment of it.

"Not only has it helped me improve on my singing and acting massively, it's allowed me to make great friends.

"One Vision is like my second family and is my happy place where I get to express myself with no judgement and just have fun."

Nine-year-old Matilda Butler, who will be playing the title role in Matilda said: "I like that everyone appreciates each other and new members, and that we get to do lots of fun things.

"I enjoy singing and learning new songs and improving. I'm excited for our shows."