The founder of a Neilston performing arts school has shared her relief at finally being able to welcome students back for classes. 

Holly McLellan (pictured) launched the McLellan Dance and Arts Academy in 2017 and the business quickly grew but the past 17 months have been a difficult time, as the Covid pandemic took its toll.

Now that East Renfrewshire has moved ‘beyond Level 0,’ she has been able to resume sessions at the Glen Halls, in Neilston’s Main Street.

Holly told the Barrhead News: “Just before lockdown, my business was doing really well and it was great to see my students progress through the classes.

“Unfortunately, Covid-19 hit and my business was up in the air due to the restrictions but, now that things are easing up, I’m delighted to be able to start classes back up and see students come through the doors again.

“It feels like starting from scratch but the response I’ve had from the community has been tremendous.”

Classes take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and cover ballet, jazz, tap, street dance, commercial dance, musical theatre and cheerleading.

A pre-school dance class for those aged three and over also takes place on Wednesdays, from 4pm until 4.30pm.

Holly, who graduated from Dance Studio Scotland at Glasgow Clyde College in 2015, leads a team of teachers and has a wealth of experience to draw on when guiding the next generation of young performers.

She was previously a member of the Scottish Rockettes, the official dance squad for pro-basketball team Glasgow Rocks, and has taken part in shows at theatres in Glasgow, including the King’s, Theatre Royal, Mitchell Theatre, Tramway, as well as closer to home at Eastwood Theatre, in Giffnock.

“In September 2015, I choreographed my first large production of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ at Eastwood Theatre which sold out and was a great success,” added Holly. 

“I’ve been passionate about dance and musical theatre from the age of three,” said Holly.

“All of which is great experience to pass on to my academy students.”

For more details about the classes, email holly@themclellan.co.uk or visit The Mclellan or search for ‘McLellan Dance and Arts Academy’ on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.