WELCOME!

CENTRE STAGE first started in 1980 with a handful of children at the Players Theatre, Hurstpierpoint where it was the only workshop of its kind in the area.  Having the use of our own real theatre is inspiring for the children, and has proved to be very successful. 

Classes are run by professional teachers and actors who cover all aspects of drama including mime, improvisation, voice and script work, the main emphasis always being on confidence building for the children.

Classes takes place every Saturday during term time and aims to teach children from the ages of 6-17 years the fundamentals of acting and theatre craft.  Each class is designed to teach confidence and self-expression beginning with movement and story telling for the young ones and through script-reading and improvisation to the production of scripted works and devised pieces for the older ones, all achieved through improvisation, careful guidance, freedom of imagination with fully qualified drama teachers and class helpers. 

Classes are presented in a fun-filled atmosphere where students build confidence, co-ordination and an understanding of teamwork on stage.  We currently have a membership of some 80 children and a waiting list to join, and several ex-members making their way in the profession today.
 

Every two years, the entire Centre Stage cast have the opportunity to stage a showcase production in March in order to display their new found skills and we are fortunate enough to have the use of a real 80 seat theatre to put to our use!  We also support the Hurst Players in their yearly panto and other public productions by providing young talent for various roles.  We also put students forward to perform in the Brighton Festival each year and are affiliated with the National Association of Youth Theatres where we keep in touch with other groups and organisations in the area and nationally.  

Centre Stage can also offer private hourly tuition towards Drama exams up to and including teachers diplomas as well as preparation for auditions and festivals. The examination board we use is the New Era Academy and all our teachers are suitable qualified to teach to these levels.  Private classes are available to children and adults alike.  Please contact Jacqui Edwards for further information.   Prices on application.

We would like also to put some children forward for the National Youth Theatre auditions.  Please let us know early in the term if you are interested as places are limited.