New musical theatre school to launch at Holyrood Academy in Chard
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
A new musical theatre school is set to open at Holyrood Academy in Chard, offering local students the chance to develop their singing, dancing, and acting skills under the guidance of industry professionals.
The Bethany Brown School of Musical Theatre will run classes on Saturday mornings from 9.30am to 12.30pm, catering to pupils of all ages and levels of experience. Students will have the opportunity to participate in seasonal concerts, take optional examinations, and create showreels, headshots, and CVs.
The school’s founder and CEO, Bethany Goodman, said she was inspired to establish the academy after attending a Saturday morning theatre school in Tewkesbury in 2007. She holds a first-class degree in music and musical theatre from the University of Chichester and has spent the past 13 years working in TV, film, theatre, radio, and concerts.
The teaching team includes Addison Coath, an international award-winning filmmaker specialising in drama, and Darcy Berkley, a professional performer and choreographer who has worked with Netflix, the BBC, and various music videos. Ms Berkley is also trained as a Parkinson’s Dance Science Teacher and believes that dance is a universal language for all to enjoy.
Students will be grouped by school year: Years 3 to 6, Years 7 to 9, and Years 10 to 13. Each class, which combines singing, dancing, and drama, costs £25 per student for a four-week term. Lessons will take place in the Drama Studio on Holyrood Academy’s lower site, which provides ample parking. Pupils are asked to bring their own snacks and drinks, with regular breaks scheduled throughout the morning.
In addition to regular lessons, students can take part in masterclasses with West End stars and UK touring artists, and attend trips to watch live theatre performances.
Those interested in enrolling can contact Mrs Goodman at info.bbsschoolofmusicaltheatre@gmail.com to reserve a place.
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