A DANCE show performed by people with additional support needs (ASN) and disabilities was supported by hundreds of guests in Sauchie at the weekend.

Students from the HappyDays Performing Arts company went on stage for the very first time at Sauchie Hall on Saturday, June 8, including people from all across the Forth Valley.

HappyDays owner Shelby Struthers hailed an “amazing” first show and thanked the many who supported it in a variety of ways.

There were no glitches on the day with acts going ahead as planned.

The dance and drama company was founded in November last year and aims to provide engaging and inclusive classes for children and adults from across the wider Forth Valley area with ASN or a disability.

There was a variety with different genres and types of music on stage.

On the whole, it was an “uplifting” experience for everyone involved with the audience receiving thanks for its cheers of support.

Shelby said: “It was so uplifting because of the joy on everyone’s face, the audience were just so supportive.”

According to the owner, those enjoying the classes have benefitted from a massive boost in confidence since starting.

She explained: “There’s a few people who, when we first started HappyDays, wouldn’t even set foot in the dance studio.

“For me, I’ve just seen their confidence grow so much and when they come to classes they also meet people that they wouldn’t have met before.”

And according to Shelby, support workers are seeing the difference too.

With the final tally still to come, the event raised more than £300, half of which will go to HappyDays and the other half will benefit Play Alloa, which provides play and social opportunities for people with ASN or a disability.

Shelby wanted to say thanks to the audience, people helping backstage and refreshments as well as those donating prizes to the raffle.

HappyDays is taking more students in, email shelbymaestruthers@hotmail.com or message the Facebook page, first class is free and the company will be preparing for a Christmas show going forward.