YOUNG dancers from some of the region's schools and colleges are preparing themselves for a performance of a lifetime.

Pupils from Our Lady of St Bede's School, in Stockton, Conyers School, in Yarm, Stockton Riverside College and the University of Teesside will perform alongside the UK's first post-modern African dance group, Sakoba Dance Company, tomorrow.

They are taking part in an educational initiative at the Arc theatre, in Stockton, that has involved three days of intense training, choreography and rehearsals this week, working with the award-winning choreographer and performer Boda Lawal.

The project will culminate in an exciting performance of Sango (The God of Thunder) and Iyanu (Miracle) tomorrow, at 7.30pm, at the Dovecot Street theatre.

Kevin Parker, Arc director, believes the performance will be something very special.

He said: "Sakoba Dance Company is helping to deliver a truly unique educational experience, and the young people from Conyers and St Bede's are grasping the opportunity with both hands.

"I would urge anyone interested in dance and performing arts not to miss out on this chance to see some very talented and passionate people."

Boda Lawal and his Newcastle-based company, Sakoba Dance, have received critical acclaim from around the world for their dramatic and original performances, which encapsulate both passion and excitement.

Tickets for the performance are available from the box office, on (01642) 525199, priced £10 for adults, £8 for people over 60, and £5 for students and people on benefits.