August 27, 2022

6 Theatretrain stories from students and alumni

One of the best things about the Theatretrain community are the inspirational stories that weave through each centre. Whether that’s current students, the teachers themselves, centre directors or Theatretrain alumni. Here’s a round up of the nostalgia blog series with some inspirational quotes from ex students, some of which now run their own Theatretrain centres!

1. Amy Walton: Theatretrain Coventry

“I love how Theatretrain can help transform shy and anxious people, like me, into confident, ambitious and talented individuals with a passion for the arts. The warmth, the friendly, helpful and supportive atmosphere of Theatretrain helps shape many people into who they become throughout their growing journey.”

It’s great to hear how the Theatretrain way helped Amy to grow from that shy girl on her first day, to the confident performer and woman she is today. You can read Amy’s full story here. 

2. Dan Walton: Theatretrain Luton

“It’s not an exaggeration to say that my decision to join Theatretrain was a pivotal moment in shaping who I became and indeed who I am now. The next few years were the happiest of my life. Whatever else was going on during the week, it didn’t matter because Saturday would always come around.”

We loved hearing Dan’s story and we’re even happier to hear Dan still has music in his life. There truly is so much power in theatre and music that helps students not just nail it on the stage but also in life. You can read Dan’s story here. 

3. Lauren Keeling: Theatretrain Coventry

“I can honestly say Theatretrain had a huge impact on my life, from making lifelong friends to performing in places I never would have imagined. I can’t thank them enough.  Theatretrain Coventry even helped me with my college audition back in the day, in their own time. Theatretrain isn’t just supportive in the classroom or on stage, they’re always there for you.”

It’s amazing how just having that group of friends once a week, all sharing the same goal and breaking ground together can have such an impact on the lives of our students. Thank you for sharing your story, Lauren! You can read the full story here. 

4. Paris Austin: Theatretrain Greenwich

“I remember taking part in Legally Blonde Jr. I portrayed the roles of Professor Callahan, Professor Winthrop and Kyle. Locally, I also played the Fairy Godmother in our version of Cinderella for Christmas. My best memories of Theatretrain are the friends that I made. Every morning on a Saturday I would get really excited to get dressed and catch the bus to head off to Mycenae House and start the day.”

We’re so proud of you Paris for finding your confidence and now going on to study performing arts at Canterbury College. Love your story. You can read more here.

5. Sheena Janssen: Theatretrain Braintree

“I still remember the first London show at The Royal Albert Hall, I remember thinking “this is the biggest place I have ever been!” I got to perform a solo dance performance. I was so excited to be chosen and loved every moment. Beyond that though, my happiest memories are making lifelong friends, some of which I’m still in touch with today.”

Sheena enjoyed her experience so much she took over as centre director at Theatretrain Huntingdon! And we couldn’t be happier to have her as part of the TT family. You can read Sheena’s full story here.

6. Laura Chesworth: Theatretrain Hagley

“I feel so lucky to have been given the opportunity to perform in many of the prestigious West End Theatres and been given soloist opportunities in local productions. In 2006 I sang a duet at The Royal Albert Hall with a close friend of mine who I am still friends with today and from time to time we will reminisce about such lovely memories.”

Another great story that led to Laura returning as a teacher and now centre director at Theatretrain Hagley. Thank you for being all that you are Laura and helping create more memories for your students! You can read her full story here.

We need more Theatretrain stories!

Just send your story or a request to get involved to contentmanager@theatretrain.co.uk or share your story and Theatretrain memories across Instagram using #TheatretrainStory for a reshare or the chance to be featured on our blog!

Theatretrain, a nationwide provider of weekend theatre schools for young people aged 4-18, specialises in weekly classes in acting, singing, and dancing. An emphasis is placed on learning valuable life skills such as confidence, empathy, courage, and resilience. If you know a child who loves to dance, act and sing or could do with a little confidence boost why not visit to find out what our performing arts classes can offer your child at one of our 80 locations across the UK.

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