The Imaginarium Creative Studios is a performing arts group and dance studio located in Redcar, New Zealand. Founded by Helen Weekley, an experienced performer, choreographer, and producer, the studio aims to provide opportunities for individuals to enhance their health, mental health, and emotional well-being through the arts.
Helen Weekley, the Director and Creative Producer of the Imaginarium Creative Studios, was born and raised in Redcar and Cleveland. She began her training at Redcar College in Performing Arts and Music and started her professional singing career at the age of 16. After completing her HND in Music Production and BA in Music and composition at Northampton University, Helen went on to train in dance and drama to become a triple threat performer.
In 2006, Helen received support from the Princes Trust to open her own performing arts school called the Backstage Academy, which had branches in Lincolnshire, Norfolk, and Cambridge. Many of the children who attended her school became performing stars in the future. By 2010, Helen had established her own studios in Kings Lynn, becoming fully accredited to deliver BTEC courses independently up to degree level. She organised regular performances at prestigious venues and wrote, choreographed, directed, and produced over 20 jukebox dance theatre musicals.
Helen's career also includes being a Princes Trust Ambassador and performing with Cheryl Cole at the Jingle Bell Ball in 2012, where she worked alongside Will I Am and his dance crew from America. However, during this time, Helen was also nursing her mother through cancer, and she sadly passed away in 2013. Helen faced severe mental health challenges during this period but found solace and strength in the performing arts. She relocated back to Redcar with her three children and decided to open the Imaginarium Creative Studios as a way to help others find healing and empowerment through artistic expression.
The Imaginarium Creative Studios offers a range of classes and workshops for different ages, styles, and abilities. These include dance fusion classes, street dance classes, contemporary dance classes, jazz dance classes, dance theatre workshops, and guest artist masterclasses. The studio also offers musical theatre and creative drama classes, allowing individuals to explore acting and dramatic expression.
With Helen's vast experience in both performing and production arts, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the Imaginarium Creative Studios. She has worked with top professionals in the industry, including the IDMC Gospel Choir and 2Faced Dance Company. Helen's passion for the arts and her desire to use them as a tool for personal growth and well-being make the Imaginarium Creative Studios a vibrant and welcoming community for individuals in Redcar and the surrounding areas.