A HIGHLY-ACCLAIMED performer and TV personality is set to open a school’s new performing arts centre.

Gosfield School has announced the grand opening of a new £1.75million performing arts centre, set to be unveiled by Denise Van Outen.

Gosfield School's new JW Turner Performing Arts Centre - named after the school's founding headmaster - boasts a 180-seat theatre, dance studio and fully equipped music room, as well as a suite of individual practice rooms.

The school says the event “promises to be a spectacular celebration of music, dance, and drama”.

The event will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by acclaimed performer and TV personality Denise.

She has enjoyed huge success on stage and screen since her first break came in 1996 presenting The Big Breakfast.

She has appeared on the stage in shows such as Chicago on West End and Broadway, as well as Legally Blonde and Rent on the West End.

She also presents on Channel 4’s daytime show Steph’s Packed Lunch each week and is a part of Eastenders too.

The celebration will then feature an exciting line up of talented students, as well as a performance by the renowned Kerry Ellis.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Ms Ellis, one of the UK's most popular musical theatre performers who has played leading roles in West End productions of We Will Rock You, Wicked and Oliver!, will be putting on a special performance to mark the occasion.

Alongside the established stars, students will also demonstrate an array of talent including national award-winning dance pieces, spectacular excerpts from musical theatre, dazzling instrumental playing and acting.  

School principal Rod Jackson said: “We are thrilled to be hosting such a unique and exciting event.

"Gosfield School has a rich history in the performing arts dating right back to its foundation nearly a century ago and this wonderful new facility heralds in a new era which will provide so many wonderful opportunities, not only for our students but also for the local community.

“We are honoured to have stars of the calibre of Denise Van Outen and Kerry Ellis joining us for this celebration of the performing arts."

The event will take place on the evening of Wednesday, May 3.