Following in footsteps of Madonna

Jan 22 2009 by Sandra Walls, Hamilton Advertiser

A DANCER from the Lanarkshire-based Scottish School of Musical Theatre has secured a highly sought-after place at a prestigious New York dance school.

Nikki McEwan (17) from the Airbles Road area of Motherwell, was the only Scottish student to be accepted to the world-renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance School.

She takes up her place at the end of January, following in the footsteps of many global-wide performers such as Madonna, Debbie Allan and Desmond Richardson.

Nikki is also through to the final auditions for the Julliard School based at the Lincoln Centre, New York City.

To add to her honours, Nikki was one of a unique group of dancers still at high school to gain her HNC in Dance at The Scottish School of Musical Theatre, ending a star-studded 2008 year of performances including BBC Television, PBS Television, New York and The Theatre Royal, Glasgow.

The school's director, Sheridan Nicol, said: “This is a marvellous opportunity for Nikki to train with some of the world's leading dance teachers right in the heart of the New York Theatre District.

“The Alvin Ailey American Dance School is recognised worldwide as a centre of excellence. I am very proud of her achievements.”

Nikki enjoyed a farewell party last weekend where all her theatre and schoolmates, family and friends were invited.

One of her male counterparts, Grant Reid (16) from Whitehill, Hamilton, said: “Nikki is a great girl and we all give our best wishes. Hopefully, some of us will be as successful in the next few years, whether in musical theatre, acting, singing or dance.”

For further information on the school or to join any of the classes, call director Sheridan Nicol on 01698 881 256.