Updates from Theatretrain
Blog and Events
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 fearless comic timing, extraordinary stage presence and rare ability to combine outrageous humour with warmth, intelligence and emotional depth.
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 tells you the least about what happens next.
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 know what to do? Do I have to leave straight away? Here's exactly what happens when you arrive at Theatretrain and why those first few…
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 Theatretrain arrived feeling exactly the same way. Here's what I've learned about friendship, belonging and helping new children settle in.
Will Drama Classes Help A Shy Child?
Some children walk into a new activity and jump straight in. Others need a little more time. If your child is shy, quiet in groups or nervous around new people, you may be wondering whether drama classes are really the right fit. Here's what I've learned from working with hundreds…
A Weekend Blast!
This week, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett reflects on a recent adult acting workshop held in rural Ireland. Exploring everything from improvisation and character development to the power of collaboration, Kevin shares his observations on how acting brings people together. His thoughtful account highlights the confidence, creativity and connection that…
A Story of Our Lives
Looking for a West End recommendation? Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett recently saw a production that left a lasting impression. In his latest blog, he shares his thoughts on Into the Woods, praising its storytelling, design, performances and emotional impact. From fairy tale twists to award-winning theatre, discover why this…
Laughter is the Best Medicine
In this new blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett explores the power of laughter in theatre and in everyday life. From childhood memories of uncontrollable audience laughter to Shakespeare’s clever use of comedy, Kevin reflects on why humour matters so much. Theatre has a unique way of bringing people together…
Making Friends is a Life Skill
In his latest blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett reflects on the importance of friendship and how performing arts can help young people build confidence, connection and a sense of belonging. Exploring everything from the challenges of fitting in to the bonds created through rehearsals and performances, the blog highlights…
I Didn’t Get the Part I Wanted
Kevin Dowsett reflects on a moment many performers know all too well — not getting the part they hoped for. In this honest and insightful piece, he explores disappointment, pride and the stories we tell ourselves when things don’t go our way. Through practical wisdom and a powerful real-life example,…
Making a Connection
Kevin Dowsett reflects on the small, often overlooked moments that bring people together. From a shared laugh in a coffee queue to a simple greeting on a walk, he explores how brief connections remind us we are part of something bigger. In this thoughtful piece, he considers vulnerability, laughter and…
Hi, I’m Geraldine – And This Is Why Theatretrain Matters So Much to Me
If you’ve landed on this page, chances are you’re not just looking for a Saturday class. You’re probably trying to work out something much bigger: Who is behind this?What do they actually care about?Will my child be happy here?Is this somewhere I can trust? And honestly… I completely understand that.…
What Skills Do Children Learn Through Performing Arts?
When parents first look at Theatretrain, they often focus on the obvious things. The singing. The dancing. The drama. And that’s completely understandable. After all, that’s what happens in the classes. But after more than 20 years with Theatretrain, I’ve noticed something interesting. The things parents talk about most after…
What I Learned along the Way
In over 50 years of teaching, Kevin Dowsett has found that people thrive when they embrace curiosity, kindness and laughter. Reflecting on countless moments in the classroom, he explores how creativity often emerges when individuals take risks and remain open to new ideas. It is this willingness to say “yes”…
Why Some Children Don’t Say Much After… and Why That Doesn’t Mean They Didn’t Enjoy It
You pick them up. You ask how it went. And you get… “Good.” Or:“Fine.” Or sometimes just a shrug. After three hours, you might expect a bit more. A story.A highlight.Something. So it’s easy to wonder: “Did they actually enjoy it?” Not all children process things out loud Some children…
What Changes After a Full Term (Not Just the First Few Weeks)
When a child first starts something new, parents naturally look for signs it’s working. Did they enjoy it?Did they join in?Did they come out smiling? And those first few weeks matter. But they don’t tell the whole story. Because what we often see at Theatretrain…doesn’t really show up properly until…
What If My Child Messes Around and Doesn’t Focus?
It’s something parents don’t always say straight away… But it’s there in the background. “What if they just mess around?”“What if they don’t listen?”“What if they don’t take it seriously?” Sometimes it’s said with a little laugh.Sometimes with a bit of concern. And sometimes it’s based on experience. Because you…
Is 3 Hours Too Long for a Child?
It’s usually one of the first questions parents ask. Sometimes out loud.Sometimes just to themselves. “Three hours… is that a bit much?” And on paper, I understand why it sounds like it might be. Three hours of anything for a child can feel like a long time. But what that…
Standing Out
Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett reflects on the instinct to challenge expectations and break the mould. From silent school assemblies to imagined moments of singing in everyday spaces, he explores how that inner urge to disrupt can fuel creativity and connection. In this piece, he considers why we feel compelled…
Paddington Scoops the Day
Following a remarkable night at the Olivier Awards at the Royal Albert Hall, where Paddington the Musical achieved a clean sweep, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett reflects on the continued evolution of musical theatre. From innovative staging to standout performances, he explores why new productions like this are vital to…
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