A WEST End star has backed a new acting centre which will help aspiring thespians.

The Princes Actors’ Centre will offer workshops for people aged between 14 and 25 whose ambition is to enter the performance industry and develop their skills.

The centre will be based in Clacton and the workshops will be taught by experienced professionals within the performance industry.

The project is being set up at the Princes Theatre by its director Melissa Wenn.

West End actor and singer Michael Watson, who has starred in the hit musicals, We Will Rock You, Jersey Boys, Sister Act and Shrek the Musical, has already committed to the project.

Michael, who is from Clacton, was also a member of the Princes Youth Theatre and performed many times on the Princes Theatre stage.

The classes will be tailored to fit around school, college or working hours with evening, weekend and daytime courses in a variety of subjects for all acting abilities.

Melissa said: “This is a totally new concept for this area and it will get under way in September.

“I will be using the contacts that I have built up over the years and instead of people having to travel to London and pay up to £200 a workshop they will be run here in Clacton for £50 per workshop, which is obviously much more affordable.

“We will be recognising the importance of strong performance skills and aim to develop confidence for the purpose of auditioning.”

The classes will cover a range of topics which will include, acting, audition preparation, musical theatre, acting through song, screen acting, communication skills, and voice training.

There will also be a platform to perform with the Princes Actors’ Company.

Tanya Ferguson, Tendring Council boss for tourism and culture, said: “This is something new for the district and for the region which has the potential to benefit so many people.

“It will help people to improve their skills and talents and could lead to future employment and is a major boost for the arts, culture and drama in Tendring.”

“I am delighted Melissa has chosen the Princes Theatre as her base and this will be a fantastic opportunity for our young people.”

For more information on Princes Actors’ Centre, contact Princes Theatre Manager Kai Aberdeen on 01255 686652.