Bexhill model makes catwalk debut

Stephanie Phillips, 20, a performing arts student, stepped into the limelight at the weekend when she appeared at Priory Meadow Shopping Centre, in Hastings.

Modelling a collection of outfits that highlighted the hottest Autumn/Winter trends the performing arts student was delighted to be taking part in the show.

She said: "It's been really good fun and it feels quite different to be in a show that's more about the modelling than pure dancing.

"It's been good to work with a professional team of models and dancers. I remember watching the show at Priory Meadow two years ago when the team made it look so easy. It isn't! But it's a great opportunity to work with them."

Stephanie joined six professional dancers on the catwalk. Her co-stars have worked with Kylie Minogue, Girls Aloud and a range of high profile TV commercials.

"The team have given me a lot of advice about the kind of work that is out there at the moment and what opportunities I should be looking to take," said Stephanie.

"It was really nerve-wracking just before the first show on Friday morning. I was thinking, 'It's going to be a strange feeling working so close to the audience.'

Stephanie grew up in Bexhill where she fell in love with dancing at 10-years-old and joined the ESSPA Dance School to train in a variety of dance styles.

After completing her A-levels in dance / performance studies and photography at Bexhill College, Stephanie earned a place at the world-renowned Italia Conti Academy in Guilford, where she's now about to start her third year studying teacher training and the performing arts.

Stephanie is hoping to pursue a career on stage, most likely in musical theatre, but she has also discovered a real passion for teaching and hopes to be able to combine the two.