Instead of watching people acting this summer, you could be on stage yourself.

Whether you discover a hidden talent or just have fun and make friends, it beats being stuck indoors.

Sit and Fidget are holding performing arts and drama workshops until the end of the month in Leigh and Great Wakering.

You could act in Harry Potter or Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

You could also build up your singing skills with the help of a voice coach like pop stars do.

When I called in to the group at Great Wakering they were learning Indian dance.

I caught up with eight-year-old Daisy Miller and Megan Terry, seven. Barefoot and wrapped in silk sashes, the girls told me how much they were enjoying themselves.

"I like doing all the hand movements," says Megan. "It's fun," adds Daisy, who has been to all the workshops so far this year. "My favourite has been the masks and mime workshop."

Megan, who says she joined the group because her dad is an actor, enjoyed the Robin Hood workshop most, and is already planning her character for the Harry Potter day."I like being on stage the best," she says.

All workshops are for children aged eight to 16, although younger children can attend if accompanied by a parent.

The workshops take place at the Old School Community Centre, Great Wakering and Leigh Youth Centre, Leigh.

To book a place call Claire Bartlett on 01702 306742.

Aug 15: Voice Workshop in Great Wakering Aug 20: Harry Potter in Leigh Aug 22: Creating Drama in Great Wakering Aug 23: Sword In the Stone in Leigh Aug 24: Dirty Dancing in Leigh Aug 27: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in Leigh Aug 29: Trip to the Globe Theatre Call 01702 306742