The International Youth Arts festival will begin its official launch of events with a musical showpiece titled Raise the Roof at the Rose tonight.

An ex-EastEnders star presented an acting workshop for aspiring actors and directors as part of a series of art workshops for youngsters.

Surbiton-based David Spinx, who played the character of lazy Keith Miller in the hit BBC soap from 2004 to 2008, delivered the workshop as part of the International Youth Arts Festival that began last week.

He gave attendees an insight into the acting industry and gave them tips on how to get their foot in the door.

Kingston University student Malou Coindreau, 22, said: “I found it informative and interesting. David created a friendly environment to do role play in.”

Throughout the week young people participated in numerous workshops such as storytelling, comedy skills and even puppetry.

Some even took part in a circus skills workshop where they were shown how to hula hoop, walk on stilts and juggle by a specialist circus company.

For more information visit iyafestival.org.uk.