A CWMBRAN dance school celebrated its 30th anniversary with a show at the Congress Theatre.

Annette’s School of Dance has been running since 1983 and is based at Llantarnam Church Hall and West Pontnewydd Community Hall. The show, called Inspirations, featured dances from musicals including Singing in the Rain, Cats, Starlight Express, Jesus Christ Superstar and The Lion King.

The stage was shared by both the pupils at the dance school, which range between three and 22-years-old, and a small group of adult dancers. The 68 dancers showcased their knowledge of jazz, tap and ballet.

Annette Moore, dance teacher, said: “The children were nervous but excited for the first show. It’s great to get it under way.

“It’s quite an achievement to reach 30 years. It’s such a pleasure watching the children develop over the years. They really enjoy it – you never know there might be a budding Darcey Bussell in there somewhere.”

The dance school is based at Llantarnam Church Hall every Monday, Thursday and Friday evenings and all day Saturdays, and at West Pontnewydd Community Hall on Tuesday evenings.

Ms Moore said: “I started out dancing when I was dragged along to my sisters dance class when we were younger. I was the little annoying sister – it started from there really.”