by Emma Clayton Leisure and Lifestyle Editor A Bradford dancer who performs ‘sign dancing’ is aiming to inspire deaf youngsters.

Anthony Snowden, who was born deaf, is appearing in and choreographing a pantomime which will have a special signed performance for deaf schoolchildren this week.

Anthony, 24, of Thackley, is a founder member of Deaf Men Dancing, a troupe of deaf people who integrate sign language into their movement, emphasising emotion of music.

The dancers follow the music and keep in time with each other using methods such as eye contact, lighting cues and feeling vibrations.

“It is inspiring for deaf audiences, particularly children,” said Anthony. “We’re getting out the message that deaf people can dance. It shouldn’t be seen as a barrier.”

Deaf Men Dancing have worked with boy band The Wanted, and appeared on TV show T4 at Earls Court, London.

Anthony, who was born deaf, started performing at Haycliffe Special School, now Southfield School, in Bradford. He took part in Rock Challenge, a showcase of Bradford schools’ performing arts talent, and continues to work with youngsters at the annual event.

Four years ago, he beat thousands of hopefuls to compete on BBC1 show DanceX. He was praised by judges Arlene Phillips and Bruno Tonioli, who advised him to gain more experience, and he was spotted by the principal of SLP College in Garforth, who offered him a scholarship for a musical theatre degree.

Since completing the course, Anthony has been working as a professional dancer. Over Christmas he was in a pantomime with former EastEnders and Gavin and Stacey actor Larry Lamb, and is waiting to hear if he has been picked for performances at ceremonies for the 2012 Olympics.

“This is a tough industry, and it hard when I go to auditions and can’t hear everything,” said Anthony. “I feel more confident since doing my degree, though. It helped me with speech.

“My dream is to be in West End shows, and I’d love to be in Thriller Live. Michael Jackson was my hero.”

Anthony is in New Community Arts Academy’s production of Mother Goose, along with his girlfriend, Bethany Wright, playing Jill.

The show runs at Victoria Hall, Saltaire, until Sunday. There will be a signed performance on Thursday, attended by Thorn Park School for Deaf Children.

For tickets, see (01274) 618148, tnca.com or visit Saltaire Tourist Information Centre.