A TEENAGER from Poole is fighting to fulfil her life-long dream of attending a prestigious performing college after her father’s terminal cancer diagnosis.

Liv Colbert, 18, has been performing since she was three years old and is one of the chosen few to be offered a place at Laine Theatre Arts.

The performing college is one of the top in the country and has taught famous alumni including Victoria Beckham.

However, Liv received the devastating news she did not qualify for funding for the three-year course, which costs more than £60,000.

Liv’s mum, Helen, is a primary school teacher and said the prospect of finding the money is impossible.

The family has also been hit with the tragedy of Liv’s dad, Scott, being diagnosed with terminal cancer and having no means of financially supporting her.

They also worry Scott might not live to see his daughter fulfil her dreams.

Bournemouth Echo: Liv Colbert

Liv, who has trained at Poole’s Steppin’ Out Academy of Performance, said: “Going to Laine Theatre Arts has been my dream for such a long time.

“All I’ve ever wanted is to sing, dance and act on a West End stage and Laine has the most amazing track record in that area.

“To go from the high of being offered a place, which was the best 18th birthday present ever, to then get that snatched away from me, I was devastated.”

She added that her family has supported throughout her stage journey but this “final hurdle is impossible”.

She said: “I’m hoping I can appeal to local businesses that would like to sponsor me and help make my dream come true.”

Bournemouth Echo: Liv Colbert as a young dancer

After joining Steppin’ Out in 2009 Liv was chosen to be part of the academy’s elite team, winning multiple awards at national level.

She has also competed internationally, representing Team England at the Dance World Cup as well as signing her first professional contract in 2022 for the Lighthouse Poole’s production of Cinderella. Angela Taylor, Liv’s principal and teacher at Steppin’ Out for 15 years, said: “Liv has a very special talent and has all the ingredients needed to make it as a top West End star.”

She added: “It’s such a tough business and it seems so unfair when very talented young people like Liv cannot make that final goal because of finances.

“I really hope someone can come forward and help Liv see her name in lights, she certainly has the talent to achieve that.”

Businesses interested in sponsoring Liv can email HelenColbert@live.co.uk or donate via the Go Fund Me titled ‘help talented teen’s dream come true’.