A DANCE school in Alveston has raised an incredible £4,200 for a children’s charity through a series of shows.

The Sharon Phillips School of Dancing, which runs classes in Alveston and Patchway, took to the stage for five shows over March 25-27 at the Olympus Theatre in Stoke Gifford, all in aid of charity CCAA, which helps children with juvenile arthritis.

More than 1,000 family and friends packed out the venue for the show, called “A Time to Dance”, which involved an amazing 175 children and 520 costumes, aged from three to 18 years old, performing tap, modern, contemporary and ballet dancing.

“It was brilliant to have the whole school involved,” said school founder Sharon. “From the three-year-olds taking part in their first show to our 18-year-olds crying because it’s their last show, and for the families to see what the children can achieve.

“The children have been learning their dances since January and did an amazing job. We were so proud of them. They were so well behaved backstage and danced their hearts out on stage.”

After hearing one parent had said the show was “better than Christmas”, Sharon added: “I can’t speak for Father Christmas but I’m happy for him to be trumped by something that’s so full of fun, excitement, anticipation, practise, hard work, friendship making, confidence building and just plain joy.”

The next event being hosted by the school is a tea party for children’s mental health charity “Off the Record”.

Taking place on Sunday, June 10, from 2pm to 6pm, the event is encouraging current and former pupils to come together to enjoy 20 years of photos and footage.

For more information, contact Sharon on 07989 652780 or visit sharonphillipsdance.co.uk.