Updates from Theatretrain
Blog and Events
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…
The Joy of Theatre
Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett reflects on the highs and lows of theatre-going. From disappointing West End visits to truly unforgettable performances, he explores why audiences keep returning. It’s not just about the show, but the shared experience—moments of laughter, silence and connection with strangers.
Auditions
Auditions can feel overwhelming for both children and parents alike. The nerves, the anticipation, the uncertainty — it’s all part of the journey. In this honest and reassuring blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett shares his personal experiences of auditions, from moments of failure to valuable lessons learned. Discover why…
What If My Child Refuses to Go In?
What happens if your child gets to the door of a new activity and simply refuses to go in? It's one of the biggest worries parents have before a taster session. The good news is that it happens more often than you might think. Here's what I've learned from helping…
Talking about Tiff
Who brings unstoppable energy to Theatretrain? This week, Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett shines the spotlight on Tiffany King of Theatretrain Reading. Dancer, teacher, writer and performer, Tiff seems to do it all — and with remarkable spirit. From award-winning videos to inspiring workshops and a striking new one-woman play, her…
How to be Happy
In this reflective blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett explores how performers – and people in everyday life – can protect their happiness in a busy, stressful world. Drawing on experiences from the performing arts, he looks at criticism, self-doubt and the small frustrations that can affect our mindset. With…
Choosing Activities That Support Who Your Child Is, Not Who You Think They Should Be
Not every child thrives in the same environment, and that's okay. In this article, Geraldine explores why the best activity for your child isn't always the most popular one, and how confidence often grows when children find a place where they feel comfortable being themselves.
The Last Laugh
In this thoughtful reflection, Kevin Dowsett, Artistic Director of Theatretrain, explores the unpredictable magic of live theatre. Inspired by a recent visit to see Arcadia at the Old Vic, he considers the brilliance of Tom Stoppard’s writing alongside the quirks of audience behaviour. From intellectual complexity to communal patience, Kevin…
What Parents Often Notice at Home Before They Notice Confidence at School
When parents think about confidence, they often look for it at school first. But the earliest signs of progress are often much closer to home. In this article, Geraldine shares some of the small changes parents frequently notice before teachers do, and why growing confidence doesn't always appear in the…
Coming Down the Road
In this insightful blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett explores theatre’s evolution from the enduring traditions of The Mousetrap to the rise of AI-enhanced productions. While modern technology delivers impressive spectacle, he questions whether automation can ever replicate the spontaneity and emotional depth of live performance. Kevin ultimately champions the…
Why Telling Children to Put Their Screens Away Isn’t Usually Enough
Many parents worry about how much time their child spends on screens. But what if the screen isn't actually the problem? In this article, Geraldine explores why children often gravitate towards screens when nothing else is competing for their attention, and why finding an activity they genuinely enjoy can make…
Sometimes it Just Doesn’t Work Out
In his latest blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett shares reflections on a recent West End production of All My Sons starring Bryan Cranston. While praising the powerful performances and Arthur Miller’s compelling writing, he considers how directorial decisions and audience experience can impact even the strongest productions. A thoughtful…
Katie Jones ex-Student
Sometimes people ask Kevin Dowsett about former Theatretrain students who have gone on to become household names. While those stories are always inspiring, he believes it is just as important to celebrate the many former students who now work successfully across the performing arts industry. In this blog, Kevin catches…
When it all Changed
In this reflective blog, Theatretrain Artistic Director Kevin Dowsett looks back to 1989, a year of huge change in Europe, and a youth theatre exchange that shaped his life. From crossing Soviet borders to performing abroad with future stars, he reflects on theatre, freedom, friendship and the lasting power of…
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