A Gorleston performing arts school enlisted some A-list help as it opened the doors of two new studios.

Eastern Daily Press: Teachers and students of DPA Performing Arts Academy celebrate the opening of their new studios. Picture: David HannantTeachers and students of DPA Performing Arts Academy celebrate the opening of their new studios. Picture: David Hannant (Image: Archant)

DPA Academy of Dance and Performing Arts on the Longs Business Estate in the town has recently expanded its premises, allowing it to hold additional classes and provide extra space for their students.

On Sunday, dance teacher and former Pussycat Dolls member Kimberly Wyatt officially cut the ribbon on the extension, before teaching an exclusive class to some of the academy's students.

Ms Wyatt, who grew up in Missouri and was a judge on Sky 1's Got to Dance, said: 'I had a studio similar to this one when I was growing up and it was my life. For somebody wanting to go into showbiz, places like this are of immense importance.

'I think it's a fantastic studio and something that will engage children to express themselves and really follow their dreams.

Eastern Daily Press: A plaque unveiled at the DPA Academy. Picture: David HannantA plaque unveiled at the DPA Academy. Picture: David Hannant (Image: Archant)

'It is so important for children to have teachers who believe in them and these types of places are perfect for that.'

The new extension is an exciting addition for the academy, with work to add more features still in progress.

As well as additional performance spaces, the expansion has seen a singing studio and a green room for pupils to relax and socialise.

Karen Thompson, principal of DPA said: 'This development will allow us to offer a lot more classes and further improve our children's experiences.

'We are really big believer in our children not getting too attached to just one teacher. Being able to do more classes will allow them to get to know other teachers and expand their horizons.'

Ms Wyatt's visit came through a mutual friend of hers and Mrs Thompson -2014 Got to Dance winner Lukas McFarlane, who put the pair in touch.

Mrs Thompson added; 'It was really great to have somebody of her calibre coming to the studio - not only opening the extension but teaching a class.

'We are really appreciative of her visit, it made the whole occasion that little bit more special. I was really surprised that she agreed to come, but it was really fantastic that she did.'

Once the expansion is complete, the academy will also have its own recording studio,

Ms Wyatt, 35, spent seven years in the chart-topping girl group, before they disbanded in 2010.