STUDENTS at a Chippenham based dance academy wowed their audience during what they have hailed as their most ambitious production yet on Saturday.

Fitzgraham Academy of Dance performed a double bill of Coppélia and Cirque d’Été featuring 165 dancers ranging from three to 18-years-olds, and more than 750 colourful costumes.

They combined the well-loved ballet in the first act with a circus-style spectacle in act two.

Attention to detail was second to none in this production, with the backdrop for Coppélia a town square for the villagers to dance in, and to show off their pointe work.

In Dr Coppélius’ workshop the playful theme really emerges, with adorable dollies, performed by toddlers in vibrant dresses, energetic jack-in-a-boxes and even toy soldiers in bright red costumes, complete with military-style hats and wind-up keys.

The second act brought a high-impact showcase of circus-style acts, including dancers balancing on huge rainbow coloured balls, one dangling from an ariel hoop, and mime artists to name a few.

There was something for everyone, with modern, tap, contemporary, lyrical and acro on show, all in a colourful array of costumes.

Principal Beccy Petty-Fitzmaurice, said: "I’m thrilled that the show was a huge success.

Fitzgraham’s signature Dads’ Dance got the laughs, with 19 grown men dressed as clowns attempting the floss, hula-hooping and forming two human pyramids.

"Each and every dancer has improved over the last couple of years since the last show and everyone has worked so hard.

"The kids were amazing, the audience was amazing, the teachers were phenomenal - I feel so lucky to have found them. They absolutely contributed to the show, but of course it couldn’t have happened without the numerous helpers backstage, from the chaperones and runners, to the set designers and seamstresses."

Cllr Glenis Ansell, Calne Town Mayor attended the performance and described it as an extraordinary show. She said: "As the curtain rose to reveal yet another exciting scene we saw so many different dance styles. We were so impressed with the standard of dancing and the amazing costumes."

Head chaperone Amanda Costain, added: "From the minute the chaperones arrived, it was a hive of activity, dressing rooms being arranged, costumes hung on rails and tutus being steamed. But when the children arrived, their excitement was infectious. The dancers are so professional, helping each other do up their costumes, fix hair pieces and encourage each other through the nerves. They were a pleasure to work with."

Former co-principle Wendy Dixie, said: This year was a very different show for me, but it was such a privilege to help and support such a wonderful team."

More information can be found at www.fitzgraham.co.uk