Young talents from West Lothian are once again poised to captivate audiences as Stage Skool Live prepares for its highly anticipated return to the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival this August. This marks the third consecutive year the dynamic performing arts group, comprising students aged eight to sixteen, will grace the stages of one of the world’s most exciting cultural events, promising a vibrant showcase of youthful potential and dedication.
Stage Skool Live operates as an intensive summer theatre initiative, meticulously designed to provide aspiring young performers with unparalleled opportunities. Under the guidance of seasoned professional directors, choreographers, and musical coaches, these budding stars immerse themselves in a rigorous training environment, honing their skills and preparing for demanding full-scale productions.
The program transcends typical drama lessons, offering a real-world experience that culminates in performing at a globally recognized festival. This unique setup empowers young artists to develop not only their theatrical prowess but also crucial life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and confidence, all within a professional and supportive framework that fosters artistic growth.
This year’s impressive cast features a wealth of talent, including two exceptional school pupils hailing from West Lothian, who have secured coveted lead roles. Their journey from local stages to the international spotlight of the Edinburgh Fringe exemplifies the calibre of training and the depth of talent fostered within the Stage Skool Live program, bringing pride to their community.
Prior to their Edinburgh Fringe debut, these dedicated young performers from Stage Skool demonstrated their versatility by staging a captivating teenage version of “SIX,” the popular West End musical about Henry VIII’s wives. This pre-Fringe engagement took place at the historic South Dalziel Building in Motherwell, offering audiences a glimpse into their preparatory work and diverse repertoire.
Lindsay MacGregor, the owner of Stage Skool, passionately articulated the collaborative spirit behind their productions, stating, “We have two bases in West Lothian and in Motherwell, and we come together over the summer and collaborate. For the Fringe production, we merge and have the kids from West Lothian and Lanarkshire working together.” She emphasized that “Stage Skool Live isn’t just about putting on a show — it’s about giving young people the tools, confidence, and stage to tell stories that matter. It’s about growth, teamwork, and the thrill of live performance.”
The eagerly awaited 60-minute performances of Disney’s “Newsies Jr.” will run from Monday, August 4, to Saturday, August 9, at The Space, Grand Theatre in Edinburgh, with daily shows commencing at 9:50 am. This particular production promises a high-energy adaptation of the classic Disney tale, brought to life by the spirited ensemble of young performers.
Tickets for Stage Skool’s Disney’s “Newsies Jr.” are readily available for purchase through both the Edinburgh Festival Fringe box office and Space UK, ensuring that enthusiasts of youth theatre and family-friendly musicals have convenient access to witness this inspiring production. Early booking is advised due to the anticipated demand for these vibrant performances.
