A SUMMER theatre school in has been hailed a success.

The course at Alcester Grammar School was part of its community outreach programme and will form the basis for a new comedia del arte company next year.

Up to 15 students attended the free, week-long course where they learned about the art of stage comedy with visiting instructors and then produced a film of their work, on a play by Moliere.

Teacher Stephen Steinhaus, who organised the course, said he was delighted with its success and hoped it would be the beginning of a much bigger project.

Since gaining Performimg Arts Status, the grammar school has run free weekly drama sessions on Saturday afternoons for all students aged 14-19.

But, said Mr Steinhaus, time pressures at weekend means the sessions will now be held on Monday nights and next year will focus on comedia del arte because that is what the students have requested.

The new group is expected to begin mid-September and anyone wishing to get involved can call Mr Steinhaus on 01789 762494.