FREE hip-hop dance classes are being offered in Musselburgh.

The Morag Alexander School of Dance has teamed up with the Active Schools initiative to offer the sessions for P4-7 and S1-S3 pupils in East Lothian.

The classes will be held at Morag Alexander School of Dance on Bridge Street on Sunday, April 2.

Active Schools East Lothian is a joint initiative between East Lothian Council and sportscotland.

The programme was identified as a key element of the Scottish Executive’s drive to get more people in Scotland active – a commitment outlined in the National Physical Activity Strategy.

The main aim of Active Schools East Lothian is to offer school-aged children the motivation and opportunities to adopt active, healthy lifestyles throughout their school years and into adulthood.

The programme supports and sustains a network of volunteers, coaches, leaders and teachers who deliver extra-curricular physical activity and sport before, during and after school and in the wider community.

East Lothian Courier: Hip-hop/urban is enjoyed by students at the Moray Alexander School of Dance Hip-hop/urban is enjoyed by students at the Moray Alexander School of Dance

Pamela Whittaker, known as Miss Ross, a former pupil of Morag Alexander School of Dance, studied dance in Preston before returning to teach for many years in the school.

Now, after 10 years’ leave concentrating on her family, she has returned as business manager.

She said: “We at the Morag Alexander School of Dance are delighted to be working alongside Active Schools East Lothian.

“We have been visiting schools throughout East Lothian providing free dance classes for pupils and have received fantastic feedback.”

Pamela added: “On April 2, hip-hop/urban teacher Mr Mac will deliver fun, high-energy, dynamic classes focusing on various styles of hip-hop, funk and breakdance.

“The class will start with a warm-up to prepare the body for movement, followed by drills to develop foundational skills and techniques, and culminates in a choreographed rou-

tine that incorporates the various styles and techniques already learned in class, encouraging creativity and individual expression.”

P4-7 will meet from 3.30pm to 4.15pm, and S1-S3 from 4.15pm to 5.15pm.

To book, go to eastlothian.bookinglive.com/home/active-schools/active-schools-tranent/activeschoolsdance

Morag Alexander School of Dance was established in 1970 and has delivered dance classes to the communities of East Lothian and Midlothian ever since.

In 2013, after building works were completed, the school moved from Dalrymple Loan to Bridge Street, where there are two dance studios, changing rooms, toilets, a cafe area and a fully equipped music and recording studio where musical theatre classes are held every Sunday.

Dance classes in ballet, jazz, hip-hop/urban, commercial, tap, contemporary, parent and toddler dance, and adult dance are offered daily at Stage Door Studios, as well as at branch locations in Gullane, Haddington, Dalkeith and newly opened Macmerry.

Pamela said: “As the school examinations and Royal Academy of Dance examinations are now complete for this year, pupils are working towards the annual show and musical theatre showcase, which are both held in June at The Brunton.”