DANCERS returned to the Eastgate Theatre last week after year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Members of the Fiona Henderson School of Dance took to the stage on November 13 and 14 in what was the first ever performance for some pupils.

Senior pupils performed ‘Eclipse’ which featured a range of dance styles – including ballet, tap, Highland, Scottish National, Irish, street, contemporary, jazz and modern.

School principal Fiona Henderson said: “We were overjoyed to see our Seniors back on stage where they belong – doing what they love to do.

“This year’s show was the most technically varied and complex we’ve ever produced with 36 dances in total including solos, duets and group dances.

“Their teachers and I were delighted with their performances, and I know from the various messages and emails that their parents and other audience members thought likewise.”

And the youngest pupils, some as young as three-years-old, took part in their first ever show with a performance of ‘Forever Friends’.

Ms Henderson added: “Our Little Stars Show represents a real milestone for our youngest dancers – it is the first-time they have ever been on the theatre stage and with all that entails including the loud music, lighting and stage curtains and then being faced with a packed audience watching them.

“And they always rise to the occasion and never fail to disappoint.”

The Fiona Henderson School of Dance was established 37 years ago and now boasts eight branches across the Borders.

The school was recently awarded Dance School of the Year 2021.