Pupils from Croydon's Asian School of Performing Art and Culture showed off their talents in music, drama and languages during one Saturday morning class and are inviting more people to join.

The school, open as usual on October 13, has been operating from Willis Road premises for more than ten years and accepts people of any age or ability.

It offers lessons in the sitar and the tabla, singing, drama and teaches Gujarati, Urdu, Hindu, Arabic, Bengali, Punjabi and Tamil.

The school, based at Cornerstone House, teaches not only the Indian classical dance form Bharatnatyam, but Bollywood dance too, in an effort to move with the times and attract young Asians.

Mohammed Aslam, the school's chairman said: "Our school philosophy is based on non-religious and non-political beliefs and is open to all.

"We also have helped to organise and actively participated in partnership with local schools and voluntary groups in high quality multicultural events in the borough.

"Croydon Mela is just one example."

A qualified and experienced team of staff teach every Saturday between 9am and 2pm.

For more details ring 01689 849 440.

October 23, 2001 10:00