IN PICTURES: Hundreds take part in spectacular Twinkletoes showcase dance event in Blackpool

The Barbara Jackson Theatre Arts Centre put on its bi-annual Twinkletoes production at the Blackpool Winter Gardens' Opera House. Photos by Rob Lock

Around 400 performers from Barbara Jackson’s Theatre Arts Centre took part in this week’s Twinkletoes production, with thousands of costumes lined up and glistening backstage.

Every two years, the Fleetwood-based school presents a dazzling week of shows, with this year’s running until today.

The centre’s principal, Lorraine Hill, spoke of her pride at the youngsters, and said: “We’ve got children aged 18 months to 18 years in the show, and what must be thousands of costumes; one of my grandchildren and all her class has seven costume changes!

“There’s something for everyone in the show and it’s really fast-flowing and busy. “There’s a fantastic 42nd Street number to open the show, and pieces from the Trolls and High School Musical films, Matilda the musical, a massive Little Mix number, and contemporary dance.

“At one point there’s about 250 children in a Beauty And The Beast section, aged from 18 months to seven years - as one group dances, another’s lined up ready to go.

“With so many children taking part, we have no choice but to go to the Opera House, which is a wonderful opportunity for our pupils.”