about us

At Stars Stage School, we are passionate about inspiring the next generation of performers through high-quality dance training in a positive and encouraging environment. Every class is led with dedication and enthusiasm, nurturing creativity, discipline, and confidence while helping students develop their technique, performance skills, and love for the stage. Whether dancing for fun or working towards future opportunities in the performing arts, we're committed to helping every student shine.

Lauren Turner

Principal

A young woman with long wavy hair, light skin, and blue eyes, wearing a black off-shoulder top, standing against a red and beige patterned background.

  • ‍Trained professionally at Italia Conti & Stella Mann College

  • First Class BA (HONS) in Performing Arts

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts

  • Acrobatic Arts Certified

  • IDTA Qualified Teacher

  • Enhanced DBS

  • First Aid & Safeguarding Trained

Dance and Musical Theatre have been a huge part of my life from a young age, and I have been fortunate enough to train, perform and compete in a wide range of styles, including ballet, modern, tap, acrobatics, lyrical/contemporary, commercial, musical theatre and pointe, alongside completing my IDTA examinations. Growing up, I attended weekly classes at a local dance school and a theatre school. During this time, I was given many opportunities to compete regularly and perform in many different plays and musicals such as Alice in Wonderland, Narnia, Animal Farm, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory and many more!

At 16 years old, I moved away from home to begin my professional training at Italia Conti Arts Centre. During my training, I was fortunate enough to learn from some of the industry’s leading professionals and perform in a variety of productions, including a singing performance at the Wembley SSE arena. I then continued my training at Stella Mann College, where I graduated with a First Class BA (Hons) Degree in Performing Arts.

For over five years, I have taught at several dance schools and theatre schools, having previously worked as a teaching assistant before progressing into teaching. During lockdown, I launched free online dance classes for children and adults, which later grew to become regular classes for children 18 months+. Alongside stage school teaching, I have also delivered dance and music sessions in nursery and primary school settings, and choreographed many dance competition or event performances, such as for Chance 2 Dance.

I gained a distinction in my IDTA Teaching Qualification, am a qualified Acrobatic Arts teacher and Pilates instructor. In addition to this, I hold an enhanced DBS certificate, first aid training and safeguarding training.

My aim is to provide every student with high-quality training in an inspiring environment, helping students to build confidence, develop excellent technique and discover a lifelong love of performing. I want every student to feel encouraged to reach their full potential, whatever their age or ability, while creating a positive and welcoming environment where they can grow, challenge themselves and enjoy every step of their dance journey. Most importantly, I hope to inspire a genuine passion for dance that stays with my students both inside and outside the studio.

TEACHING ASSISTANT

Esmie McCarthy

  • Training in Dance at BOA 2026-2028

    (Level 3 Extended Diploma)

  • IDTA Examinations in Ballet & Modern

  • Acrobatic Arts Examinations

  • Performed at Birmingham Hippodrome & Alton Towers

  • Teaching Assistant for 4+ years

I am so excited to be assisting at Stars Stage School and to have the opportunity to support and encourage the next generation of dancers. Having started dancing myself at the age of six and having previously gained experience assisting younger dancers, I know how much of an impact a supportive teacher can have on a young dancer. I hope to use my own experiences and passion for dance to help children build their confidence, develop their skills and, most importantly, enjoy every moment of their dance journey.

I currently train five times a week across a wide range of styles, including acrobatics, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, tap, commercial, ballet, musical theatre and heels. I have been fortunate enough to perform at fantastic venues, including Alton Towers and the Birmingham Hippodrome, and I regularly attend dance conventions such as Super Weekender, as well as intensive training days, where I have the opportunity to learn from and be inspired by different teachers and industry professionals. I have competed competitively since the age of 7 and have performed in many shows.

Also, I completed a number of dance exams, achieving a High Merit in my Grade 2 and 3 Ballet exams, a Distinction in my Grade 2 IDTA Modern exam, as well as two Distinctions and an Excellent in my Level 1, 2 and 3 Acro exams.

I have recently auditioned for and gained a spot at the amazing BOA Ormiston Academy where I am able to further develop my skills and gain valuable experience from industry professionals.

As I go on to assist at Stars Stage School, I am passionate about creating a positive and encouraging environment where every child feels supported and able to reach their potential. I want to help dancers grow in confidence, discover what they are capable of and develop a genuine love for dance. I am so excited to have the opportunity to assist at Stars Stage School and look forward to sharing my passion, experiences and knowledge with younger dancers!

Ready to join us?

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