About The Classes

Swindon Young Actors is not a Youth Theatre and we do not concentrate on working towards large-scale performances, although an element of performance work forms a natural part of the broad dramatic training we aim to provide for all of our students.

Our classes, although fun, are about learning and they are for all children and young people who are interested in, gaining solid acting skills, acquiring confident and disciplined performing abilities and becoming familiar with a wide range of performance styles and techniques.

We hope that we provide a supportive and caring learning environment in which individuals are encouraged to develop the confidence to share ideas and work imaginatively and constructively with one another. Drama is like any other hobby or interest,

 

the better you get at it, the greater your confidence

which naturally, increases your enjoyment. Our aim

is to encourage ownership of skills, which we hope

will promote a lifelong interest in and enjoyment of the performing arts.

Beginners

This class concentrates on building the foundations for future learning. Through games, imagination exercises and directed play acting, the children begin to learn to interact as part of a group and are introduced to basic acting skills, an awareness of the use of voice and body and the concept of character and storytelling through improvisation. The emphasis is on learning through structured play.

Pre-Juniors (6-9 yrs)

These classes enable students to acquire basic skills in preparation for more advanced drama activities and allow them to work in an environment that is not dominated or led by more confident and or experienced students.

Juniors (9-11yrs)

As above, with the introduction of games and exercises which promote an understanding of style and technique and an awareness of self in preparation for more detailed character work. Improvisation skills are developed and built on and the children are encouraged to explore and exploit their own ideas through spontaneous and prepared improvised scenes. There is a strong emphasis on group work and trust. Regular attendance is expected.

Advanced Juniors (12-14 yrs)

Pre-Seniors (14-16 yrs)

Some previous experience and a proven commitment are required for this group.

Building on the skills acquired in the previous groups, there is more emphasis on leaning to develop concentration skills, focus and control. Some scripted work is introduced and more sophisticated improvisation techniques are explored. Group trust and communication skills continue to be built on so that students feel encouraged to freely share ideas and use their imagination. The use of constructive positive criticism forms an important part of the learning process

Seniors (16-22 yrs)

A more advanced learning programme, which is suited to students with a strong interest in increasing their understanding of the actor and his craft. Students are encouraged to write and devise their own theatre as well as work on scripted plays. All work is guided towards some form of public performance.  Regular visits to drama festivals and the theatre are arranged and further opportunities are made available to students to enable them to broaden their skills and further their enjoyment of drama. Previous experience and real commitment is required for this group.

Summer School

Swindon Young Actors also run summer schools so that eager members can get their regular stage fix throughout the school holidays.

Information about these programs can be found on our What’s On pages when booking and venue availability is confirmed.

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