Anna Fiorentini Theatre and Film School 10th Anniversary Gala

Anna Fiorentini’s Theatre & Film School’s 10th Anniversary Gala is being held on Saturday 2 April at the Hackney Empire at 7pm.

The school has been keeping children from disadvantaged backgrounds off the streets in some of London’s most poverty-stricken areas, providing free bursaries for those in most financial need for the past ten years. Anna Fiorentini, the founder said: ‘I want all children in the East End, regardless of any financial, physical or learning difficulties, to have access to professional training normally only available to more affluent families’.

Its ambassador, Michelle Collins is being supported by fellow actress Dani Harmer, best known for her long-running BBC1 role of Tracy Beaker, the girl who grew up in a care home. Dani is also involved with the school acting as a mentor and teaching workshops at the Hackney-based theatre & film School.

Dani Harmer said: “This is such an amazing theatre school and they have offered an opportunity for so many children in Hackney and given them a direction in life.

“The theatre school works with the support of so many unpaid supporters and they do so much for the community.”

To celebrate their 10th anniversary and the launch of their charitable arm – The Fiorentini Foundation – this year’s show will be a fundraiser for their Hardship Fund. The Fiorentini Foundation, a registered charity, provides support for less privileged inner city children who wish to increase their confidence, self-esteem and life skills via the performing arts.

These kids are some fantastic rising stars that are going on to gain significant roles in Eastenders and The Bill; The Lion King and Oliver; and in music videos for artists such as Chemical Brothers, Bombay Bicycle Club, Massive Attack and Temper Trap.

To book tickets to the 10th Anniversary Gala for 2 April please call 0207 682 1403 or email hello@annafiorentini.com