Pupils all rise for Blue star Duncan

Most kids would be a bit put out if their dad came to class and burst into song – but then most dads aren’t ‘Duncan from Blue’.

Heart-throb popstar Duncan James dropped by Poynton High School for the day to give a special workshop for youngsters, including daughter Tianie, five.

Tianie, who lives with mum Claire Grainger, in Poynton, said: “I really liked having my dad there but it was funny sharing him with the other boys and girls.”

Duncan, 32, is currently appearing on Five’s talent show Don’t Stop Believing as a judge and has just finished recording Blue’s comeback album after a run in the West End’s Legally Blond.

He was thrilled to help out with rehearsals for an upcoming show performed by the ‘Dance at the Smithy’ dance group.

“I am here to give these kids as much encouragement as I can to help them fully realise their potential and give a fantastic performance in Manchester,” said Duncan.

“If you have a passion for singing and dancing, it is hugely important you practice and get involved in events or groups like this.”

Duncan and Tianie’s mum Claire were childhood sweethearts, together for nine years.

Claire, 34, a dance teacher at the Smithy group, said: “It was fun to work with Duncan and Tianie, and Duncan and I are the best of friends. Tianie really loved having her dad there with all her friends. She’s not interested in fame herself, although she does like to watch her dad on TV. She wants to be a doctor when she grows up.”

The group is rehearsing for their summer performance held at the Royal Northern College of Arts, Manchester, where they will perform choruses from various musicals including Billy Elliot and Fame.

Principal Deirdre Middleton wanted to thank Danielle Minns, the group’s head of modern theatre and Claire Kennedy, Poynton High School’s head of performing arts, for letting them use their facilities.

The children’s performance ‘The Magic of Dance’ takes place on September 18 and 19 and tickets are available on 0161 439 7576

[Source: Manchester Evening News]

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