A DANCE teacher affectionately known as Miss Julie has had to give up teaching youngsters after being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease.
Almost 40 years after she founded her beloved Jay Bee Theatre School, in Barugh Green, pupils past and present will honour Julie Foster with a one-night only performance called ‘To Miss Julie, Thank You.’
Julie, 57, was diagnosed last year.
It is impossible to count how many pupils have passed through her doors, many starting as tiny children and leaving to go on to perform in the West End and on television, living out their own dreams which Julie has made possible through her expert and dedicated teaching.
Her husband Peter said: “It’s nice that this is being done, it’s a beautiful gesture.”
Teachers Lauren Brooks and Emily Cooper are keeping the school going.
Lauren, 24, of Four Lands Close, in Barugh Green, said: “The show is not so much a farewell, but an occasion where we can celebrate what Miss Julie has done for everyone.
“She is Jay Bee. She created it, it’s her baby and this show is to celebrate that.
“Miss Julie is doing ok, she has good days and bad days. We still see her and she loves to come in and give everyone a hug and see all the girls.
“This has been a shock to everyone. The school is still open, it’s still under Miss Julie’s name and we’re trying to carry on and continue that legacy she has built. We are trying to keep her school and her dream alive.”
The show is on July 18, but has already sold out. It will be a variety show with different styles of dancing including ballet, tap and jazz. There will also be singing and appearances from special guests, as well as photographic slideshows and video messages in between routines.
Lauren said: “We’ve tried to recreate some of the pieces Miss Julie choreographed, and choreographed routines to her favourite songs and things that she has liked in the past.
“I think the video messages will be lovely. Everyone will need to bring a packet of tissues. But as well as it being an emotional evening, I believe it will be a heartwarming show.
“Miss Julie has touched so many people’s lives, it will be a nice way to celebrate what she has done. It is the perfect tribute.”
Emily said: “Miss Julie has been, and still is, an inspiration to not only me but every pupil that has walked through the doors of Jay Bee Theatre School. She is a role model to all of us and still continues to be so strong despite what she is going through. I would do this show over and over again to raise as much money as we can for the Alzheimer’s Society and BIADS as they offer so much support to not only the person who has been diagnosed but the family around that individual. It is overwhelming to see so many ex-pupils of Miss Julie’s who have come back to dance in the show all these years later. Some have not danced for more than 10 years.”
Proceeds from the show will be split between the Alzheimer’s Society and Barnsley Independent Alzheimer and Dementia Support.
Julie was presented with the Special Award at last year’s Proud of Barnsley Awards.
