A GROUP of aspiring young Wee County performers are tomorrow travelling to New York City in what could be the experience of a lifetime.

Following a mammoth fundraising effort, 24 pupils from Forefront Stage School will be arriving in the Big Apple on Thursday (July 25).

In what will be a chance to chase the Broadway limelight in the prominent Theatre District, the group will be performing at the New Amsterdam Theatre the next day and will also be taking part in workshops with celebrity dancers over the weekend.

It will then be over to Times Square to perform a flash mob before a cruise on the Hudson River and a chance to explore the city between activities.

Amber Rennie, principal at Forefront Stage School, said: “For some of the kids, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“How often do you get to go on holiday with your friends and do all these things, such as stand in the middle of Times Square and be a part of a big event?

“It’s priceless and I am really proud to be able to offer it to the girls.”

A “phenomenal” amount of around £40,000 has been raised in the past year to support the trip with thanks going to the many people and businesses who have generously donated during countless fundraising events.

READ MORE: Forefront Stage School wows audiences with The Dream

It is a unique offering by a school, arranged through company Dance the World, and comes in the wake of a trip to perform at Disneyland Paris in 2020, just before Covid-19 hit.

There will be many iconic sites to take in while the group, totalling more than 40 with parents, will also enjoy a unique meal at Ellen’s Stardust Diner – famous for its singing waiters and vibrant atmosphere.

The trip is not just an opportunity for the pupils, Amber also hopes it will put the school on the map as it is a unique offering in the wider region.

The group will be returning to the Wee County next Tuesday, July 30.