Actor and former Emmerdale star Dale Meeks launches new drama classes for adults in South Shields

Actor Dale Meeks has announced his latest project, bringing improv to adults in South Shields.

The former Emmerdale star will launch The Impro Academy on Wednesday, January 29, hosting weekly sessions from 7pm-9pm at the Simonside Arms on Newcastle Road.

The project is something Dale has wanted to pursue since his soap days but says the timing finally felt right to share his industry insight with South Shields.

“It’s something I have always wanted to do, but the venue came along and it just seemed right," said Dale.

“When I look around the town it is over-saturated with dance and drama classes for kids, there seems to be a huge gap in the market.

“I’ve got the industry experience and I thought I could bring something different.”

Dale will be running the classes alongside his other industry commitments, with two potential West End projects in the pipeline and the return of his co-written play about the Mariners FA Vase win 'Everywhere We Go' to the Customs House this spring.

The Impro Academy is open to everyone, of all abilities and experience levels, he said: “The beauty of improv is that it's a leveller, you don’t have to have any experience, I’ll make sure that everyone works at their own pace.”

While much of the focus will be on socialising with like-minded people there will also be opportunities to work with industry professionals and host regular showcases.

But Dale is keen to stress that those who fancy giving it a go shouldn’t let their nerves get the better of them.

“There has been a lot of interest but I know that some people are really nervous about stepping through the door - I’ll be nervous too - but I want everyone to work within their own comfort zone. I don’t want anyone to feel awkward or uncomfortable, I just want people to give it a go," he added.

“You’ll soon wonder why you were nervous in the first place.”

Sessions are £10 and start on Wednesday, January 29 from 7pm-9pm at the Simonside Arms.