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 Academy
🌟 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: 7:00–9:00 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
At Upstage Theatre Academy, our performers are developing the skills, confidence and individuality to shine on stage. From finding their own solo voice to working as part of a large ensemble, students train across acting, singing and movement to become confident, well-rounded musical theatre performers.
Our students are working towards an exciting programme of performance opportunities, including their Trinity College London Musical Theatre Group Examination in February 2027, our Annual Showcase at Theatre Royal Winchester in June 2027, and an Academy-exclusive production of The Addams Family: School Edition at Festival Hall Petersfield in October 2027.
It’s all about building confidence, developing skills and giving our performers the opportunity to put their training into practice on stage.
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.
Our training is led by a team of experienced theatre professionals who bring their industry knowledge, creativity and passion for performance into every session. Sassy Hayes leads the creative vision of Upstage, delivering energetic and engaging training across acting, musical theatre and performance, while Louise Helyer provides expert musical direction, developing students’ vocal confidence, singing technique and ability to connect with an audience. Chloe Porter leads choreography and movement, helping students develop their dance technique, stamina, performance quality and stage presence. Together, our team creates a high-energy training environment where performers can develop their skills, build confidence and learn from professionals who continue to work within the industry.
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.
