Cowper School of Dance through the years

Members of the Whitehaven dance school have not long landed back from New York after dazzling crowds at the city's iconic Town Hall Theatre.

Dancers followed in the footsteps of Billie Holliday, Bette Davis and Robin Williams, as they took to the stage of the historic venue, performing a mixture of lyrical, tap and pointe dancing.

Principal Adrienne Kelly said it was "an amazing experience" and something the girls would be talking about for years to come.

The dance school's first Stateside show is one in a long list of impressive achievements in its 146 year history.

Three years ago, the school was selected to perform in the annual Class Talent variety show, on one of the most famous stages in show business, the London Palladium.

Of course, Whitehaven Carnival has always been a showcase for dancers and a member of the school is always chosen as Carnival Queen.

The dance school is well known for its spectacular Christmas shows in Workington's Carnegie Theatre, as well as its performances at Blackpool Winter Gardens.

When asked what had been her personal highlight over the years, Adrienne said: "There's been so many.

"I think it would be teaching children from a young age to in their twenties and seeing them grow and their professionalism, which we saw in New York.

"Mums that have been taught by my mum are now bringing their daughters.

"You can't top Broadway. The girls are saying now, where are we going next?

"I was very, very proud of them. There wasn't a dry eye in the audience - even the dads were crying!

"They're all sorry it's over now."

With a rich history, the Cowper School of Dance has built up its own unique brand over the years.

It was founded by principal Adrienne Kelly’s great grandfather Oliver Cowper in 1871. He was a much-respected dance teacher and was well known all over West Cumbria.

With his wife, Margaret, Mr Cowper was engaged in the music and dancing profession for over 40 years, with Workington as their centre.

He was a clever musician and at one time a great bandmaster and leader whose orchestras included many young men who attained eminence in other places.

The school has been run by successive generations of the family ever since.

Adrienne’s mother, Marion, was principal before her. Both started dancing as soon as they could walk and share a passion which has run throughout their family.

Adrienne says her mother, who is now 83, is still "very much involved" in the school.

"It's our life," she said.

"The discipline and respect they show my mum is lovely to see. She's the grandma of the school, really."

The dance studio, which is based on Cross Street, was built by Adrienne’s husband. It had previously been on the other side of the road.

Dancers enjoy classes in ballet, tap, modern, musical theatre and acrobatic.

The school has helped mould professional dancers including Robert Gravenor, who trained with the Royal Ballet School and enjoyed a successful career as a dancer, travelling all over the world.

However, Adrienne says she doesn't really encourage members to go professional.

"It's a very difficult industry to get into and it doesn't last long. I encourage them to keep it as a hobby - it gives them so much confidence."

Adrienne runs classes every day, including all-day Saturday, and ages range from two, to women in their forties.

The adult class is attended by ladies who were taught by Marion when they were younger and want to continue their love of dancing.

Adrienne said: "We're like a big family - we get all their trials and tribulations over the years.

"I would love to think we will still be around in another 146 years. I've certainly got no plans to retire.

"My son is a doctor so he won't be taking over but maybe his children will one day - who knows?"

The school is currently preparing for its Christmas show, A Christmas Sparkle, which features the routine performed in New York.

It takes place on December 17, at Workington's Carnegie Theatre. Visit www.carnegietheatre.co.uk to buy tickets.