Thirty-six young stars shone brightly last week as the two-week Regency Arts Theatre School program presented their production of "HONK Jr," the award winning musical, based on the familiar story of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Ugly Duckling."

The youngsters had a grand experience, many of them with no previous theatre experience.

Regency Arts Theatre School (RATS) is a summer school dedicated to teaching young people between the ages of 10 and 16 about the many facets of theatre production, including acting techniques, producing and technical production.

Created in 2007 by Director Jackie Dack, RATS has already become known for its quality and innovation in combining practical teaching with an actual theatre production.

Students are given just two weeks to learn new skills and produce a full-length stage show for the public. After two years of such a challenging schedule, the RATS team has proven up to the task.

"We have had such a awesome team of people to make this happen," Director Dack said. "Between myself, our musical director Sheena Moree, choreographer Lois Seiler, our four young teachers' assistants, and the tremendous support of the parents and the Freeport community, we have been able to pull this off in great way again this year."

The entire program is presented by Freeport Players' Guild, the 46-year-old not-for-profit community theatre organisation that operates Regency Theatre.

Hundreds attended the two shows at Regency Theatre and thrilled to the songs and performances of the energetic cast. Proceeds raised from the production helped defray costs associated with the summer theatre school and to further support community theatre in Grand Bahama.

More information about Regency Arts Theatre School, Freeport Players' Guild and Regency Theatre can be found at the web site www.regencytehatregbi.com.