Updates from Theatretrain
Blog and Events
Making an Entrance
How much can we learn about a character before they’ve even said a word? In his latest blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett looks at…
How Do Children Build Confidence?
Some children stand at the back of the room when they first arrive. They aren't trying to avoid joining in, they're trying to feel safe.…
Happy Birthday, NYT
In his latest blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett reflects on the National Youth Theatre as it celebrates its 70th anniversary. Drawing on his own…
Why Do Children Sometimes Listen to Other Adults More Than Their Parents?
Why do children listen to other adults, even when their parents have been saying exactly the same thing? A little while ago, one of our…
The Performer’s Handbook
A year ago, I told our company that I wanted to write a book for our students — one that would explain all the important…
Why Does My Child Keep Asking the Same Question?
Some children ask the same question several times before a new experience or an important event. It can feel frustrating, but over the years I've…
Dreams and Realities
In this thoughtful blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett explores this year’s theme, Dreams and Realities, and the powerful role theatre can play in bringing…
How to Help a Child Cope With Making Mistakes
Every child gets things wrong sometimes. The difference isn't whether they make mistakes, it's how they learn to respond to them. Here's one approach that's…
Why Does My Child Seem Confident One Minute and Shy the Next?
Parents often describe their child as either "confident" or "shy." After more than twenty years working with children, I've come to think it's rarely that…
How Can I Help My Child Feel More Comfortable Before Trying Something New?
Many children aren't frightened of the activity itself. They're worried about all the things they don't know yet. A little familiarity before they arrive can…
Can a Child Have Too Many Activities?
Many parents worry they're not giving their child enough opportunities. But over the years, I've realised that sometimes the biggest gift we can give children…
Why Seeing One Familiar Face Can Change Everything for a Child
A little while ago, a young girl arrived for her first Theatretrain session. She was holding tightly onto her mum’s hand. She looked nervous. Unsure.…
Themes
Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett introduces the new annual theme, Dreams and Realities. Exploring the fascinating space between imagination and the everyday world, Kevin reflects…
How Can You Tell If Your Child Really Enjoys an Activity?
One of the questions parents ask me from time to time is: “How do I know if they’re actually enjoying it?” It’s a fair question.…
Another Finest Hour
What can sport teach us about teamwork, courage and the power of a shared goal? In this reflective blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett explores…
Why Does My Child Say “I Don’t Know?” After a Great Day Out?
You’ve picked them up after what looked like a brilliant day. You ask what they did and all you get is “I don’t know.” If…
Catherine Tate
Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett reflects on Catherine Tate’s remarkable performance in Oh Mary! at the Trafalgar Theatre. In this personal blog, he explores her…
Should You Judge an Activity After Just One Session?
Many parents judge whether an activity is right for their child after just one session. Over the years, I’ve learnt that the first visit often…
What Happens In The First 10 Minutes Of A Theatretrain Taster Session?
For many parents, the first 10 minutes of a taster session are the bit they worry about most. Will my child be okay? Will they…
What If My Child Doesn’t Know Anyone?
It's one of the most common concerns parents have before booking a taster session. The good news is that most of the children already at…
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