SINCE Fame hit our TV screens in the mid-80s, the performing arts have enjoyed a boomtime.

Drama and dance schools have sprung up all over the country giving young people confidence and a foothold in the world of the stage.

The thriving Dorchester Youth Theatre, which celebrates 20 years this year, offers youngsters aged between eight and 18 the chance to learn performing arts.

During the year, DYT members attend workshops at Dorchester Arts where they learn stage skills and get to grips with dance and singing routines. They also put together a large-scale production, which usually takes place each spring.

In between they go to professional productions – the last visit was to see Hairspray at the Mayflower in Southampton – and tour their own shows.

One of the highlights for DYT members is Combined Arts Week, which runs towards the end of August and culminates in two performances in the theatre at Milton Abbey School.

The week starts with a ‘mystery day’ where the youngsters are taken somewhere unannounced to give them inspiration for the play they are to put together.

Each member has a say in what they do, be it dancing, singing or drama, and they all work together to construct the finished production which is then staged in the theatre of Milton Abbey School.

Over the years, Combined Arts Weeks has become an institution, with families travelling from all over the south coast so their children can take part.

Carol Burgess, who helps run Dorchester Youth Theatre, said: “Some people plan their holiday around it because they love it so much. We have one family from Portsmouth who bring their daughter and camp in Dorset for the week.”

She added: “Apart from anything else, it helps children develop and gain confidence.”

DYT leader Tom Prior is also a huge fan of Combined Arts Week and believes it offers something to everyone involved.

He said: “You don’t have to audition and everyone gets the opportunity to show who they are, what they can do. But if you want to do it and have the ability, then you can.”

Combined Arts Week runs from Monday to Saturday, August 23 to 28. Times are 9.30am until 5pm Monday to Thursday, with a 7.30pm performance on Friday and an afternoon performance on Saturday.

The week costs £90 (£50 for a second sibling) – call 01305 266926 for bookings, full details and information about Dorchester Youth Theatre.