FROM the moment they burst onto stage in an explosion of sequins, shimmies and sass, it was clear this was going to be a high energy show from the students at LeAF Studio.

Uber talented, uber confident and uber professional, these youngsters – all aged between 13 and 19 – looked like they were having the time of their lives as they sang, danced and acted their socks off for a hugely appreciative audience at Lighthouse, Poole.

The school is celebrating its tenth year, with a section of the evening dedicated to past, favourite routines, but it's all about the future for those taking part .And what a future it looks set to be – the talent showcased here is just mindblowing. You could be forgiven for thinking you were watching a West End production that's been running for years, rather than what is, essentially, an end of term school show.

From musical theatre numbers like Be Our Guest, Mamma Mia, Mein Herr and a selection from Newsies, to pop classics from Ricky Martin, J-Lo, Lady Gaga and a tribute to the late, great Tina Turner, there's a huge amount packed into the evening.

We're treated to a range of dance styles – I particularly enjoyed the contemporary routine Suits, as well as the Irish-inspired tap to Lord of the Dance, and the high energy, commercial-style J-Lo medley – as well as umpteen costume changes, each more spectacular than the last.

There are some outstanding vocal moments too, including Beauty & The Beast, The Mad Hatter, We Don't Need Another Hero and Slippin' Through My Fingers, as well as beautiful, stripped-back renditions of Stand By Me and Thank You For The Music.

Not a beat was dropped throughout – I've no idea how they did it, but every single performer sustained that opening number energy right through to the curtain call. This is a supremely talented group of youngsters. You can just feel the passion and excitement in them, and no wonder – it's clear these talented young performers are right on the cusp of greatness.