A dance and drama academy that faced an uncertain future post-Covid has just celebrated its biggest show since the pandemic.

Crazy Catz of Penmaenmawr has this year put on two packed shows at Llanfairfechan Community Town Hall performing Cinderella to a 200-strong audience each night.

For the group - which runs performing arts sessions for five to 18-year-olds plus parent and toddler sessions for under-5s - it was a sensational return to their best with 60 children plus parents and volunteer chaperones working together to put it all together.

"It was amazing," said owner Cat McArdle. "We doubled our cast size this year and put on a fantastic show over two incredible nights.

"Last year it was a struggle, but the last 12 months have seen us growing and giving more kids the opportunity to perform on stage and it is fantastic."

Established 15 years ago, Crazy Catz of Penmaenmawr relies on fundraising and volunteers to give young people the chance to build confidence and develop creative skills through performance - culminating with the chance to take part in an annual production.

And this year they were joined by some parents on stage - including the Baron, played by Colwyn Bay RUFC U18s coach Kevin Fellows and the Baroness, Penmaenmawr Phoenix vets goalkeeper Mike Williams. 

"They are both parents and were really keen to be involved," said Cat. "It was brilliant because their teammates came along to see the show and it just added to the coming together of the community to celebrate these brilliant kids.

"We had former members giving up their time to return as chaperones and all in all it was a roaring success."

Crazy Catz gives every member the opportunity to get on stage and perform each year.

"The effect on young people's confidence is amazing," said Cat. "Some are so nervous or find communication a challenge, but the skills they learn with us help to build them up and give them the self belief to go out and perform for an audience.

"But we couldn't do any of it without the support of our volunteers and parents. It is a real community effort. They have helped us to build back up after Covid and they are helping us to offer opportunities to more children in and around Penmaenmawr. We really couldn't do it without them."

For information about spaces at Crazy Catz sessions, contact them via their Facebook page - search Crazy Catz of Penmaenmawr - or call 07583847926.