MUSICAL THEATRE TRAINING AT
UPSTAGE THEATRE
At UpStage Theatre, our Musical Theatre programme is much more than a weekly class—it's a creative journey where every student becomes part of a theatre company. Through professional training and exciting productions, our performers develop confidence, creativity and lifelong friendships while working together to bring stories to life on stage.
Our classes provide high-quality training in acting, singing and dance, led by experienced industry professionals, including a dedicated Musical Director, Choreographer and Director. Each session is carefully structured to develop technical skills, performance ability and stagecraft, with every student supported and challenged at the right level.
Whether your child is stepping into the spotlight for the very first time or is an experienced performer looking to refine their craft, UpStage Theatre offers a welcoming, inspiring environment where every performer can thrive.
Our Classes
🌟 Spotlight
Spotlight is where every young performer begins their musical theatre journey. Through fun and engaging classes, students develop the foundations of acting, singing and dance while building confidence, creativity and teamwork. With a focus on imagination, performance skills and self-expression, every child is encouraged to find their voice and discover the joy of being on stage. (Recommended for ages 5-9 years)
🎭 Centre Stage
Centre Stage is for performers who are ready to build on their foundations and develop their musical theatre skills. Students receive more focused training in acting, singing and dance, learning to create believable characters, perform with confidence and work collaboratively as part of an ensemble. As their technique and stagecraft grow, students are encouraged to challenge themselves and prepare for more demanding performance opportunities. (Recommended for ages 8-13 years)
⭐ Upstage Company
Upstage Company is our advanced training programme for dedicated young performers looking to refine their musical theatre skills. With an emphasis on performance excellence, students receive more in-depth training in acting, singing and dance, developing versatility, professionalism and artistic confidence. Working to a high rehearsal standard, members are challenged through exciting productions and performance opportunities, helping prepare them for further training or a lifelong passion for theatre.(Recommended for ages 11-18 years)
Recommended ages are intended as a guide. At UpStage Theatre, class placement is based on a combination of age, experience, confidence and ability, ensuring every student receives the right level of support and challenge as they progress through their musical theatre journey.
Class Timetable
Tuesdays – Henry Cort Community College
🎭Centre Stage: 6:00–8:00 pm
⭐Upstage : 7:00–9:00 pm
Thursdays – Fareham College
🌟Spotlight: 5:00–6:00 pm
🎭Centre Stage: 6:00–8:00 pm
⭐Upstage : 6:00–8:00 pm
What We’re Working Towards
Our students are developing their own confidence in performing, finding their solo voices and working together through movement and song to perform large ensemble pieces.
Our annual show will take place in June 2027. Giving the students the time needed to strengthen their Musical Theatre performance to a high standard.
What Sets Us Apart
At The Academy, we don’t just put on classes — we create unforgettable theatre adventures.
Every child who joins us becomes part of a dedicated production company, working collaboratively towards high-quality performances. From the first rehearsal to the final curtain call, our young performers experience what it truly means to be part of a show — developing not only their skills, but also confidence, teamwork, and a genuine love for theatre.
What makes our Academy truly special is our passionate professional team.
Led by the creative vision of Sassy Hayes, our training programmes are packed with energy, creativity, and high-quality performance training designed to help every child shine. Alongside her, Louise Helyer provides expert musical direction, helping students grow in vocal confidence, performance technique, and stage presence.
With specialist choreography and direction, our performers receive exciting, well-rounded training in:
Acting
Singing
Dance
Most importantly, The Academy is a welcoming and supportive space where every child is encouraged to be themselves, try new things, grow in confidence, and have fun. It’s a place where young people can express themselves creatively, feel part of something special, and make memories that last long after the final curtain call.
