Dance Show Live is now in its ninth year and what a year it’s been! This vibrant, whole-school event showcases the spirit, skill and sparkle of every girl at THS, with pupils taking part through PE lessons, dance clubs and special dropdown days. It was our third time performing at the Hall for Cornwall, and the girls now approach the space with growing confidence, making the show run like clockwork.
At the heart of our dance programme is the ever-inspiring Miss Clare from Savvy Studios. She leads weekly dance sessions in the Prep School and teaches ballet across both Prep and Senior. Her students are dedicated, polished, and constantly improving, gracing the stage not just in the dance show but also in our drama productions. This year’s classical ballet, Sleeping Beauty, was a triumph, from graceful en pointe performances to delightful little fairies and mischievous rats. One of the most heart-warming elements is seeing older girls mentoring the younger ones, inspiring the next generation of dancers.
Miss Clare’s versatility shines through in every Prep performance, ranging from Bollywood to contemporary and lyrical. Her creativity is matched by a wonderful sense of humour, she delights our audiences with cheeky characters and adorable moments. She also provides most of our stunning costumes, and this year we were thrilled to add to our collection with new pieces for the Senior dancers, thanks to PTA support.
Our fabulous tap numbers come courtesy of LAMDA teacher Jacqui Riordan. With great musical choices and clever storytelling, Jacqui’s routines are always a hit, this year’s Latin medley was a highlight, and the Prep girls positively beamed in their bright yellow costumes during ‘Sisters’. Tap Club continues to grow and is open to all, beginner or advanced, at no cost.
We’re also lucky to have former English teacher and professional dancer Mrs Woodruff, who brings vast experience and infectious enthusiasm. Her contributions included a high-energy Sixth Form number, a joyful Year 7 musical theatre piece (complete with UV paint!), and two elegant en pointe ballet routines through her weekly club.
As show producer, I weave all these threads together into one magical vision. This year saw two exciting new additions: a dynamic cheer routine for Year 8, thanks to Megan Rogers from Duchy Dance Academy, and energetic commercial pieces for Years 9 and 10, brilliantly choreographed by Jennifer Basset. Participation levels soared, and the energy on stage was electric.
A big thank you to the PE department for their ongoing support, to Jason Thomas for his jazzy club contribution, and to Lucia (Year 11), who choreographed a breathtaking lyrical piece performed by five of our top dancers,arguably the best in THS history!
Our soloists and small groups also dazzled, many balancing rehearsals with GCSE exams. We’re so proud of them and wish them well as they dance into the future.
Dance Show Live is truly a community celebration, every stitch sewn, bus driven and lunch packed helps make the magic happen. Bravo, everyone!
Judith Tutin, Head of Creative and Performing Arts
It was a real privilege to choreograph for Truro High School at the Hall for Cornwall last week. Having taught at the school for over 12 years, I’ve witnessed first-hand how dance has grown into a central part of school life, not just as a subject, but as a shared language of expression, confidence and connection.
Watching each girl take to the stage with such commitment, energy and individuality filled me with pride. Behind every performance was a story of growth, not just in skill but in self-belief and mutual respect. These girls lift each other up, celebrate one another’s strengths and find their voice through movement.
At Savvy Studios, we also champion both quality and inclusivity and it’s genuinely inspiring to see those values so strongly reflected in Truro High School for Girl’s dance community. Moments like these remind me of the true power of dance, to shape character, build friendships and help young people step into their light.
Miss Clare, Savvy Studios
