A FORMER Balfron High pupil hopes to discover the Justin Timberlake or Nelly Furtado of tomorrow after opening a theatre school in Stirlingshire.
Natalie James is principal of the new Razzamataz Theatre School that's set to throw open its doors at Balfron's McClintock Hall for the first time on Tuesday, September 4.
And the experienced performer has her sights set on uncovering the chart-toppers and show stars of the future.
Natalie, who has a BA in contemporary theatre after spending three years at Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, said: "We have places for 70 children ranging in age from 5-18 years. With our team of experienced performers and teachers, the students will learn pop singing, street dance, musical theatre song and dance, drama and mime and some physical theatre — the broadest range of skills needed to succeed in today's competitive industry.
"We'll also be launching a new class for ages 4-5 which introduces little ones to the world of performing arts. we'll help children develop confidence, meet new friends and get fit and healthy while having lots of fun."
Natalie is no stranger to showbiz success herself. She had two top ten hits in the Scottish charts before signing with top record label EMI with the Dutch band Bad Candy.
That move brought Natalie another two top ten singles, an album and her own TV show on Nickelodeon.
Her band even won a Best Pop Group award, beating the Black Eyed Peas in the process.
Talented Natalie also featured as an English coach on the Dutch version of the X-Factor.
The first Razzamataz Theatre School was founded in 2000 by Denise Hutton.
Starting with just 30 students and three teachers, Denise now has schools all over the UK.
The schools shot to prominence after Denise's appearance on the BBC's Dragons Den earlier this year in which the entrepreneur won the backing of Duncan Bannatyne
For more information call Natalie on 01389 602028, or visit the website: www.razzamataztheatreschools.co.uk
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