CHILDREN will be making their theatrical debut today, in dance shows they helped to choreograph.

Youngsters at South Pelaw Infants School, near Chester-le-Street, have spent weeks rehearsing their own show, based on the story We're Going on a Bear Hunt.

Today, the results of their creative endeavours will be performed in front of an audience at the Gala Theatre, Durham.

Altogether, 16 schools are taking part in the show.

Headteacher Irene Cochrane said: "Children love art. It's always surprising how many children who might not be academic can draw or paint or dance."

The project began when teachers from each school took part in a four-week dance training course with Tin Productions, based at The Forge, Aykley Heads, Durham.

The teachers then helped pupils make up their own sequences.

South Pelaw Infants School was recently given an Artsmark Award for its emphasis on creativity.

In the past few months it has held a diverse range of arts workshops, such as juggling sessions led by a school governor and art lessons with a professional artist.