Actress Pauline Quirke opens drama school in Wallington (From Sutton Guardian)

Actress Pauline Quirke opens drama school in Wallington

3:00pm Monday 11th May 2009

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The actress Pauline Quirke has opened her latest performing arts academy in Wallington, just weeks after undergoing a hip replacement operation.

The star of hit BBC shows Birds of a Feather and Cranford needed surgery in March after having osteoarthritis diagnosed at the age of 49.

But she was still determined to meet youngsters attending the launch of the 17th Pauline Quirke Academy (PQA) on Saturday morning.

The new premises at Wallington High School for Girls have replaced a smaller PQA at Thomas More Catholic School in Croydon.

At the opening, Pauline was joined by academy principal Pippa Lee, an experienced actress whose recent film credits include The Other Boleyn Girl and Inkheart.

Afterwards Pauline told the Sutton Guardian: “It was so good to see that so many children wanted to come along and join in the fun.

"Pippa and I had a fantastic day in Wallington, and it was great to see all the kids - and their parents - getting involved and showing such an interest in drama coaching.

“I believe the reason that the PQA approach to drama schools works so well is because we operate a back-to-basics method that concentrates on just having fun with acting.

“This builds confidence and communication skills in the children. We also have classes that teach basic stagecraft, as well as a street dance masterclass, stage combat and film and TV acting, so there really is something for everyone.”

Pauline added: “Wallington High School for Girls really is a fantastic venue for a PQA, and with a teacher as good and experienced as Pippa Lee, I can see it going from strength to strength.”

PQAs instruct youngsters aged six to 18 in all areas of the performing arts, with an emphasis on enjoyment rather than producing child prodigies.

For more details visit pqacademy.com or call 08456 732 022.

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