Experience More Than Musical Theatre.

More than Performing Arts skills

Our weekend classes at PQA are about more than just learning to act, sing, or dance. They serve as a nurturing ground for emotional development and personal growth.

One of the most significant benefits is the boost in self-confidence. Standing in front of an audience, whether to deliver a monologue or participate in a group performance, helps students overcome stage fright and builds their self-assurance. This newfound confidence often translates into other areas of their lives, making them more self-assured in social situations and academic pursuits.

Encouraging Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Through acting, students learn to step into the shoes of various characters, understanding their motivations, feelings, and actions. This practice fosters empathy, as they learn to appreciate diverse perspectives and emotions. Emotional intelligence is further developed as they navigate the complex emotional landscapes of the characters they portray.

Promoting Resilience and Adaptability

Performing arts training involves a fair share of constructive criticism and setbacks. Our young people learn to handle feedback gracefully, adapt to new roles and challenges, and persevere despite difficulties. This resilience is a valuable life skill, preparing them to face challenges with a positive and determined mindset.

Preparing for life beyond the arts.

While the emotional growth fostered in our academies is invaluable, the functional benefits of our performing arts classes are equally impressive.

Enhancing Communication Skills

Whether it’s through spoken dialogue, song, or dance, effective communication is at the heart of performing arts. Our young performers learn to express themselves clearly and confidently, skills that are crucial in both personal and professional settings. They also learn the importance of non-verbal communication, using body language and facial expressions to convey meaning.

Developing Teamwork and Collaboration

Many performances require students to work closely with their peers, learning to collaborate, share ideas, and support one another. This teamwork fosters a sense of community and teaches valuable lessons in cooperation and mutual respect, essential skills for any future workplace.

Cultivating Discipline and Time Management

Preparing for performances requires a great deal of practice and dedication. Young people learn to manage their time effectively, balancing rehearsals with schoolwork and other commitments. The discipline required to perfect a performance instils a strong work ethic that benefits them in all aspects of life.

Our unique Film & TV module

We all know and love our Head Principal, Pauline Quirke MBE, from her performances in TV shows such as Broadchurch and Birds of a Feather. Our unique filmmaking module offers students an exciting opportunity to follow in her footsteps! Young filmmakers will explore the world of TV and film, covering everything from writing scripts, producing and recording short films, as well as screen acting.

Developing On-Screen Acting Skills

Acting for the screen requires different techniques compared to stage acting. Our young actors get to follow in Pauline’s footsteps and learn to perform with subtlety and nuance, adapting their skills for close-up shots and various filming conditions. This specialised training opens doors to careers in film and television, broadening their horizons beyond theatre.

Using Industry-Standard Equipment

This module provides practical experience in front of and behind the camera. Students learn about camera angles, lighting, sound, and editing, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the filmmaking process. This hands-on approach helps demystify the world of film and television, making it accessible and exciting.

It doesn’t stop there…

Membership at PQA comes with a wealth of additional benefits that enrich the overall experience and provide further opportunities for growth and development.

Masterclasses With Performing Arts Professionals

Our academies regularly host masterclasses led by industry professionals. These sessions provide students with unique insights and advanced training from experienced actors, directors, and other performing arts experts. Learning from those actively working in the industry can be incredibly inspiring and educational, offering a glimpse into the realities of a performing arts career.

Film Screenings and Local Performance Opportunities

Students at PQA have the chance to showcase their work through film screenings and local performances. These events are not only a fantastic way to share their talents with friends and family but also a crucial part of the learning process. Performing in front of an audience or seeing their work on the big screen gives students a sense of accomplishment and motivates them to continue honing their craft!

Graded RSL Awards
Our partnership with the RSL (Rockschool Ltd) allows students to work towards graded awards in musical theatre and other disciplines. These qualifications are recognised internationally and can be a significant boost to a student’s academic and professional profile. The structured nature of the RSL awards also provides clear goals and milestones, helping students track their progress and celebrate their achievements.

At PQA, we offer more than just singing in rhymes, dancing in time and learning lines. Our varied classes, learning and performance opportunities nurturing not just performers, but confident, empathetic, and resilient young people, ready to take on the world.

Find out more about our classes.