When it comes to nurturing young talent, Theatretrain takes a unique approach. We don’t just teach children to perform—we guide them through an entire year-long journey of growth, creativity, and discovery. Our year is carefully divided into two distinct phases: process and production, each with its own focus, challenges, and rewards.
But what does this mean for your child? Let’s take a closer look at how the Theatretrain year unfolds and why it’s such an exciting, transformative experience.
The Process Phase: Building Skills and Confidence (September to January)
The start of the Theatretrain year is all about exploring new skills. From September to January, our students focus on the process of learning. This is where the magic really begins—long before costumes are donned or lights shine on stage. In the process phase, we emphasise skill-building in acting, singing, and dancing.
Your child will dive into storytelling, movement, vocal techniques, and the foundations of theatre. But it’s not just about learning the technicalities; it’s about unlocking creativity and understanding how to connect with the material. During this phase, we encourage students to experiment, take risks, and most importantly, have fun!
The process phase isn’t about perfecting a polished performance—it’s about giving each student the space to explore their talents in a safe and supportive environment. They’ll be encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and discover what excites them most about performing arts.
Why is this phase so important? It builds the groundwork for everything that follows. The skills learned during this time become the building blocks for the next phase—the transition from individual growth to a collaborative performance.
The Power of Group Work
One of the key features of Theatretrain is our focus on group learning. As your child progresses through the process phase, they’re not just learning solo—they’re learning as part of a larger ensemble. Our classes are designed to foster teamwork, with groups of up to 30 students working together in a lively, dynamic environment.
This group dynamic plays a huge role in building confidence. Shy students find their voice in the energy of the group, while more outgoing students learn the value of listening and supporting their peers. By January, your child won’t just have developed their own skills—they’ll also be part of a strong, cohesive team, ready to take on the next exciting challenge: the production phase.
The Production Phase: Bringing It All Together (February to July)
Once February hits, the Theatretrain year shifts gears. This is where students get to experience the thrill of putting all their hard-earned skills into action. The production phase is all about performance—transforming the skills developed during the autumn months into a full-scale theatrical experience.
During this phase, students begin rehearsals for their big performance, whether it’s a local show or a national Theatretrain production. This is where the fun really kicks into high gear. Each week, your child will be part of rehearsals that gradually bring the production to life—learning choreography, memorizing lines, and blocking scenes.
What makes this phase special? It’s the chance for your child to take ownership of their work. They’ll learn what it’s like to work to a schedule, meet deadlines, and collaborate with their classmates to create something bigger than themselves. As rehearsals progress, they’ll gain a sense of responsibility, pride, and accomplishment that comes from working toward a shared goal.
Theatretrain Performances: A Professional Experience
At Theatretrain, we believe in giving our students the opportunity to perform in real theatres. There’s something incredibly special about stepping onto a stage, hearing the quiet hush of an audience, and knowing you’re about to showcase something you’ve worked so hard to create. It’s an experience that gives every child a taste of what it’s like to be part of a professional production.
Our students have performed in some of the country’s most iconic venues, from local theatres to legendary stages like the Royal Albert Hall. No matter where the performance takes place, the excitement and sense of achievement are palpable. This is the moment when all their hard work pays off, and they get to shine in front of family, friends, and an appreciative audience.
What’s Next? Reflecting and Growing
Once the curtain closes and the applause fades, the journey doesn’t end. After each performance, we take time to reflect on the experience. What did they learn? What moments were their favourite? What will they take with them as they continue to grow?
The end of the production phase marks a time for reflection and celebration, but it’s also the beginning of a new cycle of learning. Each year at Theatretrain is different, with new themes, new challenges, and new opportunities for your child to develop their skills and creativity even further.
Why Parents Love the Theatretrain Year
As parents, it’s wonderful to see your child grow in confidence, creativity, and self-expression throughout the year. You’ll witness their journey firsthand, from the early stages of skill development to the excitement of their final performance. Watching your child step onto a professional stage, proud and confident, is a moment you’ll treasure forever.
But beyond the lights and applause, you’ll also see the deeper benefits. Theatretrain helps children build social skills, resilience, and a sense of belonging. They become part of a team, learning to support and encourage each other as they work toward a shared goal. And as they tackle new challenges, they’ll gain the confidence to take on whatever comes next in their lives, both on and off the stage.
Find out more about our
amazing performing arts classes here
Theatretrain Hitchin
Saturdays
Hitchin Girls School
9.30am-12.30pm
Theatretrain Letchworth
Saturdays
St Christopher’s School
9am-12pm
Theatretrain Stevenage
Saturdays
Marriotts School
1.30pm-4.30pm
