The Stagecoach team helps students to blossom as individuals on and off stage
‘Through teaching the performing arts our aim is to enable children to build key life skills, such as communication and creativity, and develop the self-confidence to express themselves,’ says Sally Catlin, Principal of Stagecoach Chiswick.
Sally and her experienced team hold term-time classes at William Hogarth School on Duke Road. ‘Everyone is welcomed into our “family”, no performing experience is necessary and we support one another – that’s why so many children happily stay with us through all the age groups.’
Classes are held on Fridays and Saturdays and the teaching is divided by age: Early Stages (4-6 year-olds) and Main Stages (6-18). ‘Our numbers are kept deliberately small and our teachers are fully qualified – they are often West End performers,’ says Sally. ‘Also, having graduated from drama schools and had success on stage and screen, many of our past students come back to teach.’
‘We focus on TV and film, pop and many styles of dance as well as theatre and musicals, run an exciting programme of holiday workshops and offer discounted two-week trials and organise regular trips to West End shows.
‘Everyone is allowed to develop at their own pace and, most importantly, reassured that it’s fine to make mistakes. While some students come to nurture a strong talent and study for LAMDA exams, for most it’s because they want to learn, have fun and make friends in an inspiring environment. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing a student who has been shy and quiet suddenly stand up and speak – that’s just wonderful!’
SUMMER HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS FOR 5-15 YEAR OLDS: Stagecoach Chiswick will be running classes at William Hogarth School from 7-11 August. Visit the website for more information and to book a place.