A street dancing group is hoping to kick-start interest in contemporary performing arts after staging a successful Christmas show.

Hundreds of people crammed into Cheney School hall in Oxford to watch cutting-edge dance performances by members of the Messy Jam group.

The dance company, which was launched in Barton two years ago, dazzled the audience with its displays of contemporary dance, disco free-style, jazz, African and street dance.

Group founder and dance teacher Ellisha Peart, 24, said about 70 youngsters aged from six upwards took part in the 1980s-themed two-hour show after two months of rehearsals.

She said: "It was absolutely wicked, it was so cool.

"They danced so well, it was worth all the effort and I was very pleased.

"We did a show last Christmas but it was very small. This is the first time we have invited other people to come along.

"All the dancers were happy - some did not want to go home.

"They were all really, really happy and excited - and got certificates for taking part.

"We are all like one big family which is good. You don't always get that at dance schools because sometimes it can be quite competitive.

"Lots of people don't think that Barton is a great area, but Messy Jam is one of the good things to come out of it.

"We are hoping to make street dance a bit more popular."

This year the Messy Jam group has performed at events across the country, including Liverpool Carnival, the Pegasus Theatre Jamboree in Oxford and at assorted fetes and shows.

One of those taking part in last Friday's Christmas show was Sam Mahoro, of Benouville Close in Cowley.

The 16-year-old Cheney School sixth form pupil said: "It went great, everyone was just amazing. I thought it was a good show."

Miss Mahoro, who has been a member of Messy Jam for a year, said she really enjoyed the sessions.

She added: "It's amazing, the people are really great - it's fun.

"I like street dance because you can express yourself.

"If you do a fierce dance you can make an angry face. It's really energetic and you can go a bit crazy."

Messy Jam is on the lookout for new members. The group meets at Barton Neighbourhood Centre in Underhill Circus from 6pm to 9pm on Mondays and 4pm to 7pm on Wednesdays.