STEPPING OUT, PHOENIX theatre COMPANY, PLAZA THEATRE, ROMSEY

THIS is amateur theatre at its best.

A strong storyline that allows each actor an opportunity to develop their character is matched by a feel-good factor that had the first night audience spontaneously applauding at certain points.

It tells the story of a group of seven women and one man who meet each week at a tap dance class run by a teacher who has a harridan as her pianist.

Each character has a story to tell, but it is in the accomplishment of a final goal - way above the initial skills of the group - that provides the focus.

The teacher - Jane MacKinnon - gives an accomplished performance, and she is fully supported by each of the commendably strong group of actors and actresses.

The way that they incrementally improved in their tap dancing routines still did not prepare the audience for the polished final product.

Professional director Richard Digance is full of praise for his amateur crew, and justly so.

Julia Watts, as choreographer, has produced a masterpiece.

Stepping Out runs until Saturday.