YOUNG performers will take to the stage this week following a half-term workshop with an award-winning Canadian folk singer.

Ian Sherwood, who is on a UK tour, took part in the project involving children aged 11 to 18 at Brooklyn Youth Centre in Norton.

Organised by Thirsk-based charity Rural Arts, #CREATEtour included a four-day workshop, including singing, playing instruments and writing music with Ian and choir leader Sam Dunkley.

Ian said: “Performing anywhere gives you a buzz, but when you’ve spent time in an area, getting to know its places and it’s people – it makes the show really special”

Sophie Backhouse, the project organiser, said: “We love running #CREATEtour in Norton and it’s great to see the young people we’ve worked with in the past coming back for more.”

“The children really enjoyed working with Sam and Ian while learning a lot of musical techniques such as how to breathe, good singing posture and how to project their voices.

Sophie added: “They put this to practice whilst singing some choral songs, they’ve also been learning a song to sing with Ian on his tour.

#CREATEtour and Ian will be at Cropton Village Hall tonight (Wednesday), Weaverthorpe Village Hall, tomorrow (Thursday) and the Milton Rooms, Malton, on Friday, all at 7.30pm. To book, visit rurualarts.org or phone 01845 526536.