Curtain up on talent for Bollywood fans

TALENTED trio . . . (from left) Sonya Bibi, Sonia Rashid and Sonia Hanif

Theatre’s confidence booster

A TALENTED teenage trio boosted their future job prospects while discovering a new-found love for the stage.

Sonia Hanif, Sonya Bibi and Sonia Rashid — all from Glodwick — took part in a nine-week programme organised by Oldham Coliseum and youth charity Rathbone in a bid to boost their confidence.

And it seems the girls also developed an appreciation of the dramatic arts despite never having stepped foot in a theatre before the scheme started.

Sonia Hanif said: “I am a big fan of Bollywood actress Aishawrya Rai — but I’d never thought about going to the theatre or performing.

“The course has made me more confident and able to come up with new ideas.”

The curtain went up on the programme in February and has since seen the trio play a role in workshops exploring creativity, teamwork and even how to influence people during presentations.

Rachel Sears, creative development officer at Oldham Coliseum, said: “The learning is achievable, practical and enjoyable.

“Apart from allowing young people to reflect on their situation, the programme gives them confidence in their ideas and reminds them that the theatre is a space for them.

“Some of the young people hardly spoke when we first began, now they are performing in front of their peers and supporting each other as part of a team.”

All those completing the course will receive a City & Guilds arts award at bronze level.

For Sonia Rashid, there was also the bonus of attending a performance of “Funeral Games” at the local university as part of Coliseum@ which puts on productions across the borough. Rathbone, which is based in Union Street, runs the entry to employment programme for 16-18 year-olds.

The scheme combines learning life and employability skills with earning qualifications and going on work experience.

Visit www.rathboneuk.org  or call 0161-620 6767.