Sixth Form Musical Theatre

Arts1's Musical Theatre Sixth Form offers intensive triple-threat Musical Theatre training. Students develop their singing, dancing, and acting with industry-led teaching and Estill Voice International vocal coaching. It’s designed to bridge the gap between hobby and career.
Now taking applications for 2026
Overview
What you'll study
The qualification
Open Days
Masterclass
Facilities
Staff
Entry Requirements
Graduates
Open Days
Apply Now
WHAT TO EXPECT

Course Overview

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing Arts Practice at Arts1 is designed for ambitious young performers ready to take their passion to the next stage. The Musical Theatre Sixth Form course provides industry-led training that bridges the gap between a hobby and a professional career. Students benefit from expert teaching, exceptional facilities, and a training environment that mirrors the demands of the performing arts industry.

On the Musical Theatre pathway, students receive intensive triple-threat training in singing, dancing, and acting. The course is underpinned by cutting-edge Estill Voice International vocal coaching, equipping performers with the technical versatility to tackle a wide range of styles. Alongside core skills, students are challenged to explore performance craft in depth, developing both artistry and resilience as they prepare for auditions and further training.

Across all pathways, the course is enriched with extensive contact hours, individual coaching, and frequent performance opportunities that build confidence and stage experience. Whether students choose to specialise in Musical Theatre, Acting, or Dance, they graduate as adaptable, skilled, and self-assured performers. By the end of the diploma, they are fully prepared to progress to higher education or step directly into the professional industry.

View entry requirements

Cabaret

Sophie Watts
Featuring Charlie Preston, Esme Harlow and Ensemble
Musical Direction Amy Shackcloth & James Grimsey
THE CURRICULUM

What You'll Study

Year 1

Acting Through Song

Acting Through Song empowers students to integrate vocal performance with authentic characterisation, developing the craft needed for compelling auditions at leading drama schools and dance colleges. The module explores the interplay between text, music, and emotion, training performers to interpret lyrics with nuance and connect truthfully with audience and material. Through workshops, rehearsal techniques, and solo performance, students refine storytelling, artistry, and stage presence, with emphasis on honesty, vocal expressiveness, and technical excellence, preparing them to excel in auditions and nurturing versatility as musical theatre artists.
Year 1

Jazz

Jazz Dance for Musical Theatre offers dynamic training in core jazz styles, with a focus on technical precision, strength, and expressive movement. Through energetic choreography and stylistic exploration, from classic Broadway to contemporary commercial, students build versatility and stage presence. The module emphasises audition-ready skills such as adaptability, confidence, and quick learning, preparing learners for the varied demands of professional auditions. By refining technique, musicality, and performance quality, participants stand out in competitive environments, equipped with the artistry and discipline needed for diverse roles. Regular feedback and performance opportunities support continual growth and readiness for the fast-paced world of musical theatre.
Year 1

Ballet

Ballet for Musical Theatre provides a fundamental technical foundation, equipping performers with the core skills vital for all dance forms. Emphasising posture, alignment, strength, and fluidity, the module underpins versatility across jazz, contemporary, and commercial styles. Students develop precision, musicality, and expressive movement, enhancing overall stage presence and adaptability. Through structured barre and centre practice, dancers gain balance, coordination, and artistry, while learning to translate classical technique into vibrant theatrical choreography. This disciplined approach fosters body awareness and movement efficiency, empowering performers to confidently tackle the diverse choreographic demands of professional musical theatre and beyond.
Year 1

Choral Singing

Choral Singing for Musical Theatre introduces students to the techniques and artistry of ensemble singing in a theatrical context. Focusing on vocal blend, harmony, diction, and interpretation, the module develops the skills needed to perform as part of a cohesive vocal group. Through diverse repertoire, students build discipline, ensemble awareness, and expressive communication. Emphasis is placed on healthy vocal production and stylistic versatility, preparing performers for professional demands. Practical rehearsals and performances foster collaboration, confidence, and a strong sense of musical community.
Year 1

Voice & Dialect

Accent and Dialect Training for Musical Theatre develops vocal versatility for contemporary and classical roles. Students learn American and British Isles accents through practical exercises and feedback, improving clarity, authenticity, and performance credibility. As an Estill Educational Affiliate, Arts1 provides specialist guidance in healthy voice use and structured exploration of vocal qualities, preparing graduates for a wide range of musical theatre roles.
Year 1 & 2

Song & Dance Showcase

The Song & Dance Showcase is the pinnacle of the Musical Theatre programme, giving students the chance to perform in a professional large-venue setting with a live band. Rehearsing a variety of musical theatre and dance pieces, participants highlight their individual strengths while building confidence, stagecraft, and ensemble collaboration. The module celebrates versatility and creativity, culminating in a spectacular performance that showcases each student’s growth, talent, and readiness for the demands of the musical theatre industry.
Year 2

Audition Preparation

Audition Preparation is a targeted module supporting students applying to Drama Schools, Dance Colleges, and Universities.

Through specialist classes and one-to-one coaching, learners develop confidence, nuance, and polish in their monologues and audition performances. The module also includes UCAS statement workshops and tailored guidance on selecting programmes and institutions that suit each student’s strengths and goals, empowering them to make informed choices and maximise their chances of success in higher education auditions.
Year 2

Solo Platform

The Solo Platform module provides musical theatre students with the opportunity to craft a bespoke solo performance, professionally filmed in a studio environment. Designed as high-impact showreel content, this module enables learners to showcase their unique talents, artistic identity, and versatility for future auditions and industry exposure. Students receive specialist guidance in performance selection, preparation, and delivery, ensuring technical excellence and authentic characterisation. Emphasis is placed on personal expression, storytelling, and screen presence, empowering students to present polished, engaging performances that stand out for their quality in performance and production
Year 2

Final Project

The Final Project is the culmination of the musical theatre programme, inviting students to create and present a 15–20 minute ensemble performance, live or recorded. Highlighting singing, acting, dance, and creative collaboration, the module empowers participants to integrate everything they have learned into a compelling production. From concept to final curtain, students lead the artistic process, demonstrating initiative, vision, and teamwork. Assessment focuses on imaginative interpretation, polished delivery, and industry-standard practices, preparing graduates to shine in the musical theatre world.
Year 1 & 2

Song & Dance Showcase

The Song & Dance Showcase is the pinnacle of the Musical Theatre programme, giving students the chance to perform in a professional large-venue setting with a live band. Rehearsing a variety of musical theatre and dance pieces, participants highlight their individual strengths while building confidence, stagecraft, and ensemble collaboration. The module celebrates versatility and creativity, culminating in a spectacular performance that showcases each student’s growth, talent, and readiness for the demands of the musical theatre industry.
Year 3

Developing Professional Practice

Taking classes is a habit that is part of the eco-system that working professionals build into their lifestyle. Whilst third years are focussed on preparation for productions, you will also take a programme of classes designed to specifically facilitate your development. Tracked into Dancer/Singer and Actor/Singer, you will choose specific programmes of classes are targeted to you.
Year 3

Digital Showcase

Work with an incredible team of film makers, cinematographers, sound engineers, photographers, and creatives to make a professional digital portfolio that becomes your business card and brand. As a school we have a longstanding reputation for outstanding production standards and we use this team to create, elevate & capture your performance.
Year 3

The Musical

A full-scale Musical production for final year students to rehearse and perform with a professional industry creative team. Experiencing the many roles and processes that are part of staging a musical is important as many of the departments contribute to the success of the performer on the stage. Learning to work collaboratively is a key quality in creating a sustainable career.
Year 3

London Showcase

Performing in the heart of London’s West End, you will work with a creative team on curating your talent to share with agents and supporters. The process of selection and rehearsal of pieces will help us to showcase you as a performer and the potential you have to take into the industry. Collaborating with our marketing department you will prepare your CV, Media Package and Spotlight profile for agents and casting directors.
Year 1

Song and Dance Project

Work with a Musical Director and Choreographer in a rehearsal setting exploring material from a wide range of Musicals to professional performance standard. This application class provides the feel of an industry rehearsal room where you can apply all of the skills learned in your technique classes in performance.
Year 1

Acting Fundamentals

Acting takes the top priority throughout each of our disciplines, and is the core foundation for our training. Acting Fundamentals finesses the art of storytelling, encompassing various methods and techniques.
Year 1

Technical Dance Skills

Study a wide range of dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary and Commercial. Throughout the first year, the main focus is understanding and shaping your core technique. This in turn will allow the opportunity to mould and cement technique and artistry as you move between different styles of movement. Musical Theatre encompasses an incredible range of choreographic requirements. This training will provide a space for you to grow your skills to achieve your potential in dance.
Year 1

Estill Voice Training Level 1

Introducing a cutting-edge approach to voice training at the UK’s only Estill Educational accredited Musical Theatre degree. You will learn how to create an incredible range of vocal qualities to create sung and spoken word that fits a range of professional contexts. This module will provide you with an additional Estill Voice qualification, further developing your career post-training.
Year 1

Acting Through Song

Mind-blowing performances are not built by luck, chance or prayer – they are crafted through an exploration and application of technique and artistry. Working with sung material from key composers you will learn how to approach material in a systematic way and create performances that your audience remembers for a lifetime.

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Year 1

Song and Dance Project

Work with a Musical Director and Choreographer in a rehearsal setting exploring material from a wide range of Musicals to professional performance standard. This application class provides the feel of an industry rehearsal room where you can apply all of the skills learned in your technique classes in performance.
Year 1

Acting Fundamentals

Acting takes the top priority throughout each of our disciplines, and is the core foundation for our training. Acting Fundamentals finesses the art of storytelling, encompassing various methods and techniques.
Year 1

Technical Dance Skills

Study a wide range of dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary and Commercial. Throughout the first year, the main focus is understanding and shaping your core technique. This in turn will allow the opportunity to mould and cement technique and artistry as you move between different styles of movement. Musical Theatre encompasses an incredible range of choreographic requirements. This training will provide a space for you to grow your skills to achieve your potential in dance.
Year 1

Estill Voice Training Level 1

Introducing a cutting-edge approach to voice training at the UK’s only Estill Educational accredited Musical Theatre degree. You will learn how to create an incredible range of vocal qualities to create sung and spoken word that fits a range of professional contexts. This module will provide you with an additional Estill Voice qualification, further developing your career post-training.
Year 1

Acting Through Song

Mind-blowing performances are not built by luck, chance or prayer – they are crafted through an exploration and application of technique and artistry. Working with sung material from key composers you will learn how to approach material in a systematic way and create performances that your audience remembers for a lifetime.
Year 1

Song and Dance Project

Work with a Musical Director and Choreographer in a rehearsal setting exploring material from a wide range of Musicals to professional performance standard. This application class provides the feel of an industry rehearsal room where you can apply all of the skills learned in your technique classes in performance.
Year 1

Acting Fundamentals

Acting takes the top priority throughout each of our disciplines, and is the core foundation for our training. Acting Fundamentals finesses the art of storytelling, encompassing various methods and techniques.
Year 1

Technical Dance Skills

Study a wide range of dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary and Commercial. Throughout the first year, the main focus is understanding and shaping your core technique. This in turn will allow the opportunity to mould and cement technique and artistry as you move between different styles of movement. Musical Theatre encompasses an incredible range of choreographic requirements. This training will provide a space for you to grow your skills to achieve your potential in dance.
Year 1

Estill Voice Training Level 1

Introducing a cutting-edge approach to voice training at the UK’s only Estill Educational accredited Musical Theatre degree. You will learn how to create an incredible range of vocal qualities to create sung and spoken word that fits a range of professional contexts. This module will provide you with an additional Estill Voice qualification, further developing your career post-training.
Year 1

Acting Through Song

Mind-blowing performances are not built by luck, chance or prayer – they are crafted through an exploration and application of technique and artistry. Working with sung material from key composers you will learn how to approach material in a systematic way and create performances that your audience remembers for a lifetime.

Meet our Qualification partner

SIXTH FORM

The Qualification

Arts1's BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is a full-time, two-year vocational qualification equivalent to three A Levels. It combines practical, hands-on training with academic study, preparing students for higher education or for a career in the performing arts industry.

Year 1

Level 3 Diploma

Year 2

Level 3 Extended Diploma
The Musical Theatre pathway is built around units that focus on singing, dancing, and acting, with specialist modules in areas such as ensemble performance, audition technique, and musical theatre repertoire. The majority of the course is practical, supported by some theory work that helps students reflect on their training and understand the wider industry.

Previous students have progressed to top drama schools and conservatoires, while others have gone straight into professional work. As recently as last year, one graduate joined the cast of Oliver! in Chichester before transferring with the production to the West End.
ESTILL VOICE TRAINING

CUTTING EDGE OF VOCAL TRAINING

Science, Not Guesswork

At Arts1, we don’t believe in leaving vocal development to chance or to guesswork. That’s why Estill Voice Training is a core part of what we do. It’s not just a set of vocal warm-ups or techniques; it’s a proven, science-based approach that gives performers real control over their voice.

Most traditional singing methods rely on copying sounds or using general vague imagery that means different things to different people such as “use more forward placement” or “support more” - Estill translates that and allows each individual to understand what all imagery means. Instead, you get a clear framework that shows you how your voice actually works and how to train it, with precision.

Real Control. Real Understanding.

One of the things that sets Estill apart is you don’t rely on hearing the difference, but you feel it.

With guidance from a coach trained in Estill, you’ll learn to isolate and control the exact muscles responsible for vocal change. That means more than just sounding better, you’ll know why and how you’re making those sounds. And using VoicePrint technology, you’ll even be able to see your sound in real time, tracking every shift as it happens.

It’s vocal training you can measure, repeat and build on.

Versatility

From legit musical theatre to pop, rock, or jazz, today’s performers need to be versatile. Estill gives you the tools to switch between styles safely and effectively, without damaging your voice or guessing your way through it. Becoming a style chameleon.

Clean, classical clarity or gritty, commercial edge, Estill helps you make those vocal choices with confidence.

Estill & Arts1 - A UK First

We’re proud to be an Estill Educational Affiliate, and the only BA (Hons) Musical Theatre course in the UK with Estill Voice Training fully embedded into the core curriculum. That’s not a badge we wear lightly, it’s something that gives our students a genuine advantage in training and beyond.

This is industry-ready vocal work. The kind that empowers performers to not just do the thing, but understand it, refine it, and own it.

Learn From The Best

Students at Arts1 have the opportunity to work directly with James Grimsey, one of just a handful of Estill Mentor and Course Instructors (EMCIs) in the UK and globally.

James brings experience from top UK training institutions and broadcast TV, and has coached some big names, from Samantha Barks to Ella Henderson and members of Little Mix.
Year 2

Swing Module

The role of a swing is key to the sustainability of professional theatrical productions throughout the world. It’s highly technical and makes very specific demands of the performer. Working with a team of experienced industry swings you will approach a piece of Musical Theatre Repertoire and analyse the performance tracks to create a working document that would make it possible to perform any of the roles at short notice.
Year 2

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking within acting training involves developing the ability to analyze, evaluate, and interpret scripts, characters, and performances. It goes beyond simply memorizing lines or following directions, instead encouraging actors to question, explore, and make informed decisions about their craft.
Year 2

Creative Masterclass Project

Working in a group to create an original piece of musical theatre, you will explore the different roles required on stage and behind the scenes to develop the work. Performing the piece to an invited industry audience, you will take the work on a full creative process from page to stage.
Year 2

Solo Performance Project

Establishing your strengths as a performer you will create a solo showcase to demonstrate your skills in a range of styles. Understanding where your strengths are is a key aspect to recognising the path to a sustainable career in performance.
Year 2

Industry Connections

Developing industry links and building your understanding of industry conventions is essential for an aspiring performer. This series of seminars and workshops will bring you face to face with Agents, Casting Directors, Producers, Wardrobe, Stage Managers, Company Managers and many more, where you will explore the challenges graduates face entering the industry. This module finishes with mock auditions and feedback with an expert panel.
Year 3

Developing Professional Practice

Taking classes is a habit that is part of the eco-system that working professionals build into their lifestyle. Whilst third years are focussed on preparation for productions, you will also take a programme of classes designed to specifically facilitate your development. Tracked into Dancer/Singer and Actor/Singer, you will choose specific programmes of classes are targeted to you.
Year 3

Digital Showcase

Work with an incredible team of film makers, cinematographers, sound engineers, photographers, and creatives to make a professional digital portfolio that becomes your business card and brand. As a school we have a longstanding reputation for outstanding production standards and we use this team to create, elevate & capture your performance.
Year 3

The Musical

A full-scale Musical production for final year students to rehearse and perform with a professional industry creative team. Experiencing the many roles and processes that are part of staging a musical is important as many of the departments contribute to the success of the performer on the stage. Learning to work collaboratively is a key quality in creating a sustainable career.
Year 3

London Shocase

Performing in the heart of London’s West End, you will work with a creative team on curating your talent to share with agents and supporters. The process of selection and rehearsal of pieces will help us to showcase you as a performer and the potential you have to take into the industry. Collaborating with our marketing department you will prepare your CV, Media Package and Spotlight profile for agents and casting directors.
Year 1

Song and Dance Project

Work with a Musical Director and Choreographer in a rehearsal setting exploring material from a wide range of Musicals to professional performance standard. This application class provides the feel of an industry rehearsal room where you can apply all of the skills learned in your technique classes in performance.
Year 1

Acting Fundamentals

Acting takes the top priority throughout each of our disciplines, and is the core foundation for our training. Acting Fundamentals finesses the art of storytelling, encompassing various methods and techniques.
Year 1

Technical Dance Skills

Study a wide range of dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary and Commercial. Throughout the first year, the main focus is understanding and shaping your core technique. This in turn will allow the opportunity to mould and cement technique and artistry as you move between different styles of movement. Musical Theatre encompasses an incredible range of choreographic requirements. This training will provide a space for you to grow your skills to achieve your potential in dance.
Year 1

Estill Voice Training Level 1

Introducing a cutting-edge approach to voice training at the UK’s only Estill Educational accredited Musical Theatre degree. You will learn how to create an incredible range of vocal qualities to create sung and spoken word that fits a range of professional contexts. This module will provide you with an additional Estill Voice qualification, further developing your career post-training.
Year 1

Acting Through Song

Mind-blowing performances are not built by luck, chance or prayer – they are crafted through an exploration and application of technique and artistry. Working with sung material from key composers you will learn how to approach material in a systematic way and create performances that your audience remembers for a lifetime.

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Year 1

Song and Dance Project

Work with a Musical Director and Choreographer in a rehearsal setting exploring material from a wide range of Musicals to professional performance standard. This application class provides the feel of an industry rehearsal room where you can apply all of the skills learned in your technique classes in performance.
Year 1

Acting Fundamentals

Acting takes the top priority throughout each of our disciplines, and is the core foundation for our training. Acting Fundamentals finesses the art of storytelling, encompassing various methods and techniques.
Year 1

Technical Dance Skills

Study a wide range of dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary and Commercial. Throughout the first year, the main focus is understanding and shaping your core technique. This in turn will allow the opportunity to mould and cement technique and artistry as you move between different styles of movement. Musical Theatre encompasses an incredible range of choreographic requirements. This training will provide a space for you to grow your skills to achieve your potential in dance.
Year 1

Estill Voice Training Level 1

Introducing a cutting-edge approach to voice training at the UK’s only Estill Educational accredited Musical Theatre degree. You will learn how to create an incredible range of vocal qualities to create sung and spoken word that fits a range of professional contexts. This module will provide you with an additional Estill Voice qualification, further developing your career post-training.
Year 1

Acting Through Song

Mind-blowing performances are not built by luck, chance or prayer – they are crafted through an exploration and application of technique and artistry. Working with sung material from key composers you will learn how to approach material in a systematic way and create performances that your audience remembers for a lifetime.
Year 1

Song and Dance Project

Work with a Musical Director and Choreographer in a rehearsal setting exploring material from a wide range of Musicals to professional performance standard. This application class provides the feel of an industry rehearsal room where you can apply all of the skills learned in your technique classes in performance.
Year 1

Acting Fundamentals

Acting takes the top priority throughout each of our disciplines, and is the core foundation for our training. Acting Fundamentals finesses the art of storytelling, encompassing various methods and techniques.
Year 1

Technical Dance Skills

Study a wide range of dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary and Commercial. Throughout the first year, the main focus is understanding and shaping your core technique. This in turn will allow the opportunity to mould and cement technique and artistry as you move between different styles of movement. Musical Theatre encompasses an incredible range of choreographic requirements. This training will provide a space for you to grow your skills to achieve your potential in dance.
Year 1

Estill Voice Training Level 1

Introducing a cutting-edge approach to voice training at the UK’s only Estill Educational accredited Musical Theatre degree. You will learn how to create an incredible range of vocal qualities to create sung and spoken word that fits a range of professional contexts. This module will provide you with an additional Estill Voice qualification, further developing your career post-training.
Year 1

Acting Through Song

Mind-blowing performances are not built by luck, chance or prayer – they are crafted through an exploration and application of technique and artistry. Working with sung material from key composers you will learn how to approach material in a systematic way and create performances that your audience remembers for a lifetime.

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Meet your teachers, current students and view the facilities.

Book an open day

YOUR FIRST LOOK

Open Days

We offer in-person Open Days throughout the year, as well as a 45-minute on-demand Virtual Open Day. These events provide an opportunity to learn all about Arts1, explore our training programs, meet our team, and discover our school ethos.

Saturday 12th
September 2026

Saturday 24th
October 2026

Saturday 14th
November 2026

Wednesday 17th
February 2027
TUTORS

Weekly Masterclass

Our weekly Masterclass Programme runs throughout the first and second terms, giving students the chance to learn directly from leading industry professionals. These sessions combine expert insight with inspiration, helping you explore, innovate, and develop the skills and ambition needed to thrive in the performing arts.

Ivano Turco

Graeme Pickering

Samuel Wilson-Freeman

Ryan North

Madeline Appiah

Jenna Boyd

Jai Ramage

Caroline Kay

Matteo Johnson

INSIDE OUR STUDIOS

Our Facilities

Following ten years in their previous building, Arts1 moved into their new studio complex in 2024 for all students to enjoy. The new facility features a studio theatre, air-conditioned studios, an onsite coffee shop and a library space for study.

Beyond our core studios, Arts1 is equipped with dedicated 1-to-1 singing rooms and a specialised vocal booth, providing ideal environments for focused practice, voice recording and personalised coaching. We also offer a variety of breakout spaces designed for collaborative group work, creative brainstorming, and quiet reflection, ensuring that every aspect of your training and development is supported by versatile and inspiring facilities.

Rehearsal Rooms

At Arts1, we have 8 large spacious rehearsal rooms that serve as dynamic spaces for preparation and performance. Many of these rooms are equipped with their own sound and lighting setups. Our largest rehearsal space is generously sized, allowing us to replicate the stage setups you'll find in theatre spaces in MK and at Arts1.

Studio Theatre

Our studio theatre comfortably seats 120 guests, providing an intimate setting for captivating performances. It’s the perfect venue for musicals, plays, live music (bandeoke on week 1 is a highlight), and other presentations, allowing audiences to engage closely with the performers.

Dance Studios

In our dance studios at Arts1, we've thoughtfully equipped them with sprung flooring, aircon, professional-grade barres, expansive mirrors, and a user-friendly sound system ready for you to plug in your preferred device. Each studio is flooded with natural light to create a lovely training facility.

Singing Studios

Our 1-to-1 singing lessons at Arts1 happen within our dedicated singing studios. These studios are meticulously designed to create an optimal environment for your vocal journey. Each room is equipped with sound systems and a piano. Our focus is on providing you with a comfortable, private space where you can nurture your vocal talents.

Library

Our expansive library serves as a hub for research and inspiration. It houses a diverse collection of books, resources, and media, offering a quiet and comfortable environment for study, exploration, and creative thinking.

Grub

Grub, our café, is the perfect spot to relax and refuel during your training programme. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, enjoying a snack, or even holding a little pop up performance in our stage area, Grub provides a welcoming atmosphere to unwind and socialise.
YOUR TUTORS

Meet the Team

Meet the staff

Allyson Ava-Brown

Allyson Ava-Brown, born in the UK, is a MOBO award winning actress, in addition to a long running career on stage and screen Allyson is the UK's longest running Angelica in Hamilton.

Amy Shackcloth

Amy is a Musical Director working on productions including Starlight Express, Hadestown, Hercules and 13 going on 30.

Sophie Watts

Sophie is an experienced director of movement specialising in Musical Theatre.  Sophie is also an Acrobatic arts instructor.

Abz Kareem

Abz began his training at a commercial company where he trained for a total of 10 years. He later attended The Urdang Academy, where he further developed his technical training.

Adam Scott

Adam is an established and well known choreographer and teacher who has worked throughout the UK and internationally for high profile institutions and production companies.

Ben Papworth

Ben is a musical director, pianist, and piano vocalist, actively working in London's West End and beyond. He is known for his work with various artists and productions, including musical directing for shows like "Pirate Queen," "Aladdin," and "Little Women".

Zec Luhana

Zec is a multi-discipline creative, dancer and teacher as recently seen in Netflix's Dance 100. Zec has trained with London's Boy Blue Hip Hop company and is a former IDO world champion with multiple titles. Having performed at Dubai’s Global Village and toured with Thriller Live, Zec has worked across the UK and internationally as a teacher and adjudicator

Massimo Solazzo

Gemma is currently the Senior Vocal Lead Lecturer for the Acting Department at UON (University of Northampton) and is a freelance voice coach.

Ami Henderson

Ami graduated from London Studio Centre in 2007, with a BA (Hons) in Theatre Dance, with an Upper Second Class Honours with specialism in Jazz Theatre Dance.
GETTING STARTED

Entry Requirements & Fees

Students applying to Arts1 will take part in a thorough process to assess suitability for the programme. This includes practical elements as part of an audition day. Your audition day will give you the chance to show us your skills and experience and get comfortable at our Milton Keynes home. The day will include a tour of our facilities and a chance to meet staff and students.

Applicants must be aged 16 or due to have turned 16 by the time the course commences.

The course is partially government-funded, covering £4,800 per year, provided the student:

  • Is 18 or under on enrolment day (September 2026)
  • Has lived in the UK for at least 3 years
  • Holds 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths

There is an annual Top-Up Fee of £3,000 + VAT, payable in 12 monthly instalments from September. This covers:

  • Extra teaching hours beyond the standard 15/week
  • End-of-year productions
  • Compulsory trips

Scholarships
Students from low-income households may qualify for scholarship support, and detailed information about our scholarship programme will be sent following a successful application.  As a non-profit making institution, access and inclusion is at the heart of our vision for training.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Auditions Process

Jazz & Commercial class

The Jazz class is an opportunity to demonstrate your technical skills through corner, centre and a short performqance routine.

The Commercial session is focussed on choreography and performance.

Acting workshop

Take part in a practical session of drama games, exercises and creative exploration. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your openness, playfullness and collaboration skills.

Training as an actor requires the development of independent thought, teamwork and technical skills.

Solo song

For your Musical Theatre audition, you should prepare one song from a musical.  This should be something that is in your comfort zone and that shows who YOU are as an artist.

We are interested in storytelling through song and your singing technique in this aspect.

Interview

As a way of getting to know you, your experience, and your aspirations, we will be sitting down with you for a short and informal interview. This could be with anybody from the Arts1 staff team.

Our Graduates

Ivano Turco

Benjy Stevens

Alex Block

Tia Antoine-Charles

Daisy Ward

Eleanor Fransch

Matteo Johnson

Myles Waby

Sarah Ikumu

Our Work

Stage to screen

Alumni Credits

START YOUR JOURNEY

Ready to take the next step?

Apply online, book your audition, or join us for an open day — we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Get started