Our newly rebranded Portsmouth Theatres Arts Academy (PTAA) have proudly run youth programmes in Portsmouth for over a decade.
We provide various opportunities to encourage young people to fulfil their passion and potential within the world of theatre. We offer weekly classes in singing, dancing and acting, with different sessions for all abilities, as well as our annual Community Youth Production and adult show choir, Resonate.
At Portsmouth Theatres Arts Academy, we have a commitment to delivering first class training in a supportive environment and to provide places to dedicated young performers that may not normally be able to attend by hosting a scholarship programme that will fund £25,000 worth of places in a year.
Portsmouth Theatres Arts Academy (PTAA) is the educational arm of Portsmouth Theatres, which represents the Theatre Royal and Kings Theatre. We are dedicated to nurturing talent and inspiring creativity across students aged 3-18 years old. We are incredibly fortunate to be part of two historic venues: Theatre Royal and Kings Theatre. Our Academy operates out of the Theatre Royal Studio and the adjoining studios within the White Swan Building, offering a vibrant and inspiring space for our students to train and rehearse.
EARLY YEARS: Preschool – Reception and Years 1 – 3
SATURDAYS 8:30AM – 9:30AM
This engaging one-hour session blends singing, dancing, and acting to help students develop coordination, express their creativity, and grow in confidence. It’s a dynamic and supportive environment where your child can thrive both artistically and socially.
Parents/Guardians of Early Years students may stay in the building for the
duration of the session.
SENIOR ACADEMY: Years 4-5, 6-7, 8-10, 11-13
SATURDAYS 9:30 – 1:30PM
Collection: Years 4-5 1:30PM Years 6-7 1:35PM Years 8-10 1:40PM Years 11-13 1:45PM
Each week, students take part in dedicated sessions for singing, dancing, and acting giving them the chance to explore their creativity, build confidence, and develop new skills in a supportive environment. Each group has a one hour break to ensure they can stay hydrated and fuelled and also socialise. There will also be short breaks between each class. It’s a well-rounded mix of learning, laughter, and personal growth.
AFTERNOON SESSIONS
We are excited to announce that we are expanding our teaching on Saturdays! Students in Years 6 – 13 have the option to extend their day so that they can increase their learning and opportunities. These sessions will finish at 4pm and include breaks.
Autumn Term afternoon sessions:
Students will focus on combining skills taught earlier in the day. They will learn Musical Theatre repertoire, blending singing, dancing and acting together. These pieces will also be performed in the Winter Showcase. For those who are keen to be triple threat performers, these sessions are the perfect place to develop those skills. We have an early bird offer to current members, which breaks down to just £7 extra per week. Don’t miss out on this great pricing!
Spring Term afternoon sessions:
The performing arts world has so much to offer that it’s impossible to fit it all into one day, so we are introducing various workshops and guest masterclasses! This is the chance for students to work with additional industry performers and specialists to widen their range of skills and perhaps try something new. These additional classes will be scheduled in advance and have individual,
stand alone fees.
Summer Term afternoon sessions:
All students in Years 6-13 will be attending the Summer Term afternoon sessions (at no additional cost) to allow further rehearsals for the Summer Musical. The afternoon will be a continuation of their morning work, providing plenty of term for students to rehearse and perfect their show.
1-2-1 SINGING LESSSONS
Due to popular demand, we are also introducing 1-2-1 singing lessons for those who are interested. In these sessions, students will be able to dive deeper into their voice and develop through individual, specialised teaching. Students who are keen to pursue musical theatre careers or audition for productions are strongly encouraged to book into these sessions.
For more information about term fees, financial support and programme content, please contact the PTAA team at: academy@portsmouththeatres.co.uk
To join the Academy waiting list, please complete the form here. The team will be in contact soon.
Do you have a passion for musical theatre? Do you love to sing? If you are over the age of 18, our Resonate Show Choir is the place for you!
Whilst attending events in and around the city as well as at The Kings Theatre, the choir meets regularly to rehearse some of the best songs from Musical Theatre.
For more information on how to join, please email: resonate@portsmouththeatres.co.uk
Following the immense success of our 2024 Community Youth Production, The SpongeBob Musical, PTAA are proud to announce that productions will be run on an annual basis.
These shows will be a chance for young people to experience the Kings Theatre and Theatre Royal stage, and also collaborate with a professional stage and creative team.
Please keep an eye on the casting information of our website for further details or follow us on our social pages.
In collaboration with City of Portsmouth College, we have launched our further education scheme, providing students the opportunity to study performing arts at college level. For further information please visit the link below: