It’s universally known that drama not only helps with a child’s creativity but it also develops their confidence and skills as a communicator for every aspect of life. With the school curriculum continually cutting back on the arts it seems that more and more children are taking part in classes outside school as parents recognise the benefits to their child. Many young people take part in group drama classes or attend a part time drama schools or youth theatre. In fact my company, Rocket Theatre, has its own youth theatre at Sale Grammar School on Wednesday evenings – www.rockettheatre.co.uk/youth
Sometimes, however, group classes just aren’t focused enough on the individual. Children can find that they aren’t able to learn as easily – either because they need more time or attention and get left behind in a larger class or because the most talented individuals are left to fend for themselves while the tutor concentrates on those who need help to bring the general level of the class up.
With private lessons children can develop at their own pace and can focus on what they (or their parents!) would like them to.
I worked as a children’s entertainer when I was younger and since then have worked as a drama teacher at various part time drama schools and youth theatres. I have therefore had plenty of experience of teaching children of all ages.
Some children come to me to develop acting skills on a more general basis, while others prepare themselves for auditions or to take LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art) examinations in either ‘Performance’ (usually Acting or Devising) or ‘Communication’ (Speaking of Verse and Prose, Reading for Performance or Speaking in Public). I did LAMDA exams when I was younger too and while in themselves they won’t guarantee you an acting career they do offer a measured progression and something to aim for on a regular basis as you work towards various grades – in much the same way that a musician works towards music exams.
Children can attend individually or in pairs if they have a friend that they like to work with. Either way – the cost is the same, so it will, of course, work out at half the price for each child if two children attend at the same time.
Classes usually take place at my home office / performance space in Sale, where parents are welcome to sit in if they would like to. For an extra charge I can also come to your home. I teach during the week and at weekends so I am likely to be able to fit in with your schedule. Occasionally sessions might have to move around a little depending on what production I’m working on myself, but I hope this is outweighed by the benefits of being taught by a working professional actor / director, rather than a full time tutor.
To find out about the various options for your child please get in touch.