ONE of the borough's most popular and endearing groups, the TipToe Stage School, are about to take to the stage in their show, "Generation '86".

It takes place on Saturday, 3 and Sunday, 4 September at the Towngate Theatre in Basildon. And it promises to continue the school's reputation of putting on high quality, innovative and entertaining shows that has resulted in TipToe receiving performance requests from across the globe.

From opening in early 1986 with just six pupils, the school now has in excess of 100 pupils through their branches in South Ockendon and Romford.

Speaking about the event, the school's Principal, Julie Barker, said: "It's all a bit surreal to be honest – after everything people have gone through over the past couple of years, knowing we're finally back on stage as a whole school is humbling and emotional.

"When I look back it is mind-blowing what we have achieved – and I say "we" because, despite the cliché, TipToe only works because of the enduring relationships we have in the school. My, leadership team, Els, Sam, Quin, Lauren, Kaz and all my teachers juggled their own challenges and busy lives, all while continuing to provide lessons for our pupils. Either online, outside or face to face when allowed in smaller groups, they've kept the TipToe flag flowing. They have achieved so much and they, our pupils, parents and carers are second to none.

"These children – and our adult performers - have worked unbelievably hard, so I promise you won't be disappointed if you come along!"

But there is no let up for the school once the curtain comes down. They've been approached to perform in Disneyland Paris once again and there are conversations about returning to New York to dance on Broadway along with the many West End shows they have pencilled in the diary.

Tickets for the show can be bought by visiting the Towngate Theatre's website http://www.towngatetheatre.co.uk and clicking what's on. If you are interested in finding out more about classes, visit www.tiptoestageschool.com.