Dancing, acting, gymnastics, playing instruments.... these exciting activities are in the limelight at the Island's oldest and largest performing arts academy.

The Jackson School, on Burnaby Street in Hamilton, offers a wide range of extra-curricular programmes for children above the age of three.

With 13 qualified teachers and close to 1,000 students, the Jackson School is the place to go for structured teaching in a relaxed environment.

Students are not stressed out by mandatory examinations, but take it in stride as they pass through grades at their own individual pace.

Ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, modern, drama, gymnastics and music lessons as well as a special boys dance programme are available during the school week as well as on Saturdays.

"The performing arts allow students to build self-esteem and confidence,'' explained founder Louise Jackson. "It also helps to improve poise and posture as well as a love for music.

"The performing arts are perhaps the most satisfying of all art forms,'' she added. "Physically, it is very challenging. Emotionally, it is a wonderful outlet.

"It has been documented that performing arts students usually excel in academics.'' With its emphasis on staged performance, the Jackson School holds a large recital at the City Hall each summer.

The concert features all of the school's students and runs for six evenings near the end of June.

And this year's performance will be one to remember as it will mark the Jackson School's 45th anniversary.

Governor Thorold Masefield will be on hand to present prizes and the school itself will be honoured for its accomplishments.

But, even after the recital, the show will still go on.

A summer theatre arts course specialising in drama, music, singing and dancing will take centre stage during the first three weeks of July.

The programme's curtain will close after a costumed performance featuring all of the participants.

Dance is by far the most popular of the Jackson School's programme -- and a group of students recently told The Royal Gazette why.

"I have been dancing since I was four years old,'' Chantal Brinn, 11, said.

"I enjoy jazz the most because it is active and keeps my mind off other things like peer pressure.'' Pamela Smith, 13, who has taken part in every Jackson School recital since she was three, added: "Dancing is a positive way to express yourself. It is athletic and graceful at the same time.'' Five-year-olds Chelsea Marie Lupica, Julianna Trott and Ashley Ming agreed that jumping, turning, skipping, marching and leaping were what they enjoyed the most.

The aspiring ballerinas could not decide whether the Teddy Bears Picnic or Incy Wincy Spider were their favourite recitals.

Not only does the Jackson School teach students how to become great dancers, actors, gymnasts and musicians while having fun, it also gives out some $18,000 in annual scholarships.

For a fun, learning experience and further information on class schedules and prices contact the Jackson School on 292-5815 or 292-2927.