A performing arts school says it has moved to new studios in the centre of Crewe because the area is starting to show signs of promise and growth post-pandemic.

The X Academy School – which moved to Delamere Street in January this year has just started taking on extra students for new Saturday morning classes.

It had to find a new home after the Total Fitness gym where it was based, on Macon Way, was forced out last August.

School founder Jacqui Richards told Nub News: "Although we know it will take time to rebuild and gain confidence, we are encouraged by the transition we are starting to see in the town centre.

"We look forward to playing a part in developing performing arts in the area."

In January when they opened at the former Grainger Games unit, X Academy posted on social media: "Central Crewe, we look forward to being part of your community."

The academy teaches a wide range of performing arts classes from pre-school age all the way to adult. This includes modern and musical theatre, street dance, classical ballet, tap, drama and singing.

Jacqui, who has 37 years of teaching experience in the UK and internationally, opened her first school of performing arts at Coppenhall Sports Centre, during the 1980's. She juggled a lot of commitments at the time, living and training in Crewe, then qualifying at the Merseyside Dance & Drama Centre.

Over the years Jacqui has taught freelance whilst maintaining classes in Crewe & and Nantwich at various locations. X Academy now has 11 qualified teachers across all subjects.

It is Jacqui's daughter Rachel Capper who owns the business, Jacqui was relieved for her when new premises were found after the COVID-19 pandemic. The school temporarily re-located to The Granary Arts Café in Nantwich whilst looking for permanent premises.

She added: "Lockdown has been incredibly hard and we have had to relocate twice."

"Finding commercial property that is affordable and available in Crewe is difficult. Finding this venue has meant that the school can look forward again."

The family-run school posted on Facebook: "Following our studio move and settling in our patient students, we are now in a position to look forward.

"As January saw introduction of new young dancers in Wrenbury, we are now offering new limited places in February for Crewe on a Saturday Morning."

Nino Baroni from Crewe, replied: "A great school. My daughter loved every moment she spent with them.

"She wanted to take dance further and the experience and care they gave her, meant she still loves dance."

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