A dance school is being set up for disabled and able-bodied people.

Entitled ’Skianagh’ -which is Manx for ’winged creature’- the company says it want to enable all dancers, regardless of any physical disability to access professional development, to graduate and performance level.

Susannah Maybury. the principal of Theatrix Performing Arts, said: ’The island currently has no provision for mixed dance training, although the majority of Manx dance schools accept disabled students.

’Effectively training disabled dancers alongside able-bodied students requires specialized training for teachers.

’This is delivered by UK tutors who have a wealth of experience in this field.

Mrs Maybury said she had negotiated an initial workshop with DanceUnstuck, specialists in this field, inviting all dance practitioners on the island, including primary and secondary school teachers to register their interest in joining the workshop.

It will take place on April 7 at Ballakermeen Studio Theatre, Douglas if there is sufficient interest.

"This is a ground-breaking initiative on the island offering new opportunities for inclusive dance to all dancers regardless of physical disability,’ said Mrs Maybury.

’This ongoing project allows all dancers to work together in one company in an atmosphere of absolute equality, for the benefit of anyone who loves to dance. There is currently provision for dance training, but separately. Skianagh aims to integrate all abilities.’

’Skianagh’ is looking sponsorship from any local businesses who would like to be involved.

Theatrix Performing Arts also has several fund-raisers under way.

Two workshops taking place on March 2 and 3.

They are the ’Havana’ jazz dance workshop with Tom Duffy from Boom! Academy and an Irish dance workshop with world champion Michael O’Reilly.

They will raise the initial funds, with a show at the Gaiety Theatre on July 13 entitled ’Here Comes Summer’ also supporting Skianagh.

Many local performers are taking part, including Alexandra Slater, Nigel Thijs, John Rimmer, Giles Beaumont, Beth Christian, Myfanwy Gelder and Stacie Murphy.

People who would like to take part and interested teachers should phone Mrs Maybury on 431380 or email: [email protected]

Schools are also being invtied to take part in a drawing competition to design a logo for Skianagh.

The winner will win £100 for their school and a £25 Waterstone’s voucher for themselves.