Lillyann Faulkner (20), a talented dancer from Drogheda, is celebrating after graduating from the prestigious Liverpool Theatre School.

A former student of Ballymakenny College, Lillyann graduated with a Level 5 Diploma in Professional Dance and was presented with her certificate by TV personality and stage star, Kevin Clifton.

Kevin, who is best known for Strictly Come Dancing and his acclaimed performances in Rock of Ages and Burn the Floor, congratulated Lillyann on her achievement.

During his address # he gave the next generation of dance and musical theatre stars valuable advice on preparing for their careers as professional performers.

“Supporting young performers at the start of their journey is something I feel very passionate about, and I’m honoured to be part of the graduation celebrations at Liverpool Theatre School” he said.

“It’s a pleasure to share such a special day with these talented graduates and their families – huge congratulations to them all!”

Lillyann said “It was such an amazing afternoon and having Kevin Clifton present us with our certificates made graduation day even more special.”

Liverpool Theatre School, which has been nurturing young talent for over 85 years, has helped shape the careers of many of the region’s professional dancers, performers and musical theatre stars. Former students have gone on to appear in shows such as Mamma Mia!, SIX, Frozen, Starlight Express, Blood Brothers and Wicked.

The centre of excellence, whose patrons include dance legend Wayne Sleep OBE and musical theatre star Anita Dobson, provides talented young people with the skills they need to perform professionally. As part of a commitment to making high level musical theatre and dance training more accessible to working class performers, Liverpool Theatre School offers a number of fully funded places and bursaries every year.

For further information, please visit liverpooltheatreschool.co.uk.