Talented young dancers have joined professional actors for a production of Robinson Crusoe.

Nine children from Island Performing Arts (IPA) joined the cast from Shooting Star Entertainment for the pantomime at Sheppey Little Theatre last month.

The pupils were Catherine Macauley, 13, from Warden Bay; Collette Heather, nine, from Sittingbourne; Owen Tillett, nine, from Rushenden; Ben Dewsall, eight, from Sheerness; Melody Jackson, nine from Minster; Isabelle Doherty, seven and Ella Doherty, nine, both from Abbey Wood; Anya Ekwuozor, nine, from Belvedere and Natasha Syddell, 14, who was in her last IPA performance as she’s moving from Warden Bay to Suffolk.

Hannah Titterington who had the lead role of Robinson Crusoe is a new addition to IPA’s group of teachers.

It is the sixth time IPA has supported Shooting Star at the venue in Meyrick Road, Sheerness, but they will not be returning to the Island again due to low audience numbers, which manager director Michael Dewsall said is disappointing.

He said: “It’s been a wonderful experience and opportunity for many of our students this year and over the past five years.

“I am so proud with the professionalism shown by our students.

“All the students worked really hard to learn six numbers in just six weeks, while working on other projects.

“It’s been a sensational year for IPA and it’s such an honour to be able to work with some of the county’s best young performers.”

For more information on IPA, phone 01795 228022 or 07826 989397 or email info@islandperformingarts.co.uk