Joanne and Phillip set for Paris show

From the archive, first published Saturday 31st Mar 2007.

Two members of a dance academy have been chosen for a professional contract at the Disneyland Resort Paris.

Joanne Eibin, 22, a student teacher at DM Academy, and Phillip Smith, 18, a student at the school, successfully auditioned at the Yorkshire Dance Centre in Leeds.

Phil, pictured with Joanne, will be playing the part of Tigger and will get the chance to dance in the world famous Main Street Parade.

Joanne's role is yet to be decided, although DMA principal Deana Morgan suggested Snow White or Pocahontas. She said: "Both students are thrilled to be embarking on their first professional contracts and can't wait to get started. Everyone here at the studios is thrilled to see these two talented young people get their first break into the profession."

Some 200 children from DMA have appeared in their own shows in the Magic Kingdom at Disneyland, Paris, but Joanne and Phil are the first to get an eight-month contract.