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‘CREATIVE COURAGE FOR LIFE’

The name might suggest otherwise – but Stagecoach Hinchley Wood and Esher is very much based in Claygate. Its Friday dance and theatre classes now take place at Claygate Primary School, offering classes for children aged from four to 16.

The relocation, made in 2021, also threw up an unexpected opportunity – a chance for students to be part of the Claygate Dramatic Society’s winter pantomime. Stagecoach students made their panto debut in Cinderella in 2021.

Since then, students have taken part in two more Claygate pantomimes, with youngsters loving rehearsals and performances.

Melanie Edwards, the group’s lead teacher, took over the Stagecoach franchise in 2012. As a child, she was incredibly shy but was determined to overcome her fears and pursue her passion for performing arts. She joined the prestigious Corona Academy at age 11 – but her shyness meant that for the first six months she fainted from nerves at nearly every audition. Eventually, Melanie learned how to cope, landing roles in TV commercials, documentaries, and music videos – working with The Boomtown Rats on the video for “I Don’t Like Mondays”.

But her dream was to own a Stagecoach franchise. “I believe Stagecoach helps build creative courage for life,” Melanie says. “It’s not just about performing. It’s about learning how to cope with nerves, express your individuality, and develop confidence.”

Melanie has watched hundreds of students find their voices – through ac􀀮ng, singing, dancing, or simply learning how to be themselves. Many have gone on to pursue careers in the arts, attend drama schools, or become teachers.

Stagecoach Hinchley Wood and Esher’s Friday school runs from 4.30 to 7.30pm for children aged six-16, and from 4.15 to 5.45pm for children aged four to six. For more information, contact Melanie at hinchleywood@stagecoach.co.uk or visit https://www.stagecoach.co.uk/hinchleywood.