KWA

Performing Arts Classes in Manchester

Triple threat training for ages 18 months to 18 years — musical theatre, dance, singing, acting and LAMDA, all under expert tuition in a positive, nurturing studio.

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Musical Theatre

Musical Theatre Classes

KWA students performing together on stage under stage lighting

Musical Theatre

Ages 4+

In our Musical Theatre classes, students combine all three disciplines; acting, singing and dance with the focus on storytelling and performance. Students in this class will build performance technique and stamina whilst learning to perform with confidence and having lots of fun.

Toddlers enjoying a Broadway Babes class with their teacher

Broadway Babes

18m–4yrs · Parents attend

This playful and engaging toddler musical theatre class is the perfect introduction to the world of performance for our KWA Tinies (aged 18m-4yrs preschool). Through singing, dancing, and imaginative activities, children explore the magic of musical theatre in a fun and nurturing environment. They will build confidence, coordination, creativity and basic skills to set them off into the world of performing arts. Parents must attend with child.

Dance

Dance Classes

Two young KWA students in black kit dancing in a jazz class

Jazz

Ages 5+

This is a fun and fast-paced dance class that is necessary for a student’s development in dance. This class includes corner work, audition technique, choreography and learning the correct technique. In this class, the students learn Musical Theatre Jazz style.

Young student practising acro stretch with a teacher

Acro

Ages 5+

Acro combines elements of dance, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. It’s a fantastic way for students to build confidence and improve body awareness.

Young ballet dancer in a black wrap top and skirt

Ballet

Ages 3+

Ballet is the core foundation for all dance styles. By introducing ballet to our timetable, it will promote the correct technique and build muscle in turn supports our student’s musical theatre training. We follow the IDTA syllabus and enter students for exams when they are ready.

Young dancers learning tap technique at the barre in a bright studio

Tap

Ages 3+

Our Tap dance class develops rhythm, coordination, timing, and musicality in a fun and engaging environment. Dancers will learn a range of tap techniques, steps, and routines while building confidence and performance skills. Classes follow the ISTD Tap Dance syllabus, with opportunities to work towards examinations and qualifications.

Students in KWA kit holding a lunge in a modern dance class

Modern

Ages 7+

In our Modern Dance class, students will develop strength, flexibility, musicality, and performance skills while learning engaging choreography. Classes follow the ISTD Modern syllabus, with opportunities to work towards ISTD examinations and qualifications.

Young dancers building flexibility and strength in a conditioning class

Body Con & Stretch

Ages 7+

This class is important for children who want to build their strength and flexibility which will help them to excel in their dance and musical theatre training. Stamina and fitness is imperative!

Young dancers learning high-energy commercial choreography in a studio

Commercial

Ages 7+

Our open age Commercial class is high-energy, fun, and inspired by the styles seen in music videos, concerts, and live performances. Students will learn dynamic choreography while developing confidence, performance quality, coordination, and musicality in a supportive and upbeat environment. Perfect for dancers who love to perform.

Singing

Singing Classes

Group singing class practising harmony and musicality

Ensemble Singing

Ages 5+

In this class, we hone the students’ skills in harmony singing and musicality. This is an important class to practice and train your musical ear. Being able to sing in harmony and as an ensemble is imperative in Musical Theatre.

One to one singing lesson with a qualified vocal teacher

1-2-1 Singing

Ages 4+

Work with our experienced singing teachers on your vocal technique, acting through song and building a varied repertoire in our 1-2-1 sessions. Limited slots available. Opportunity to take exams and enter competitions. Please contact Kitty before reserving a place.

Acting & Speech

Acting & Speech Classes

Young actors rehearsing a scene for stage and screen

Acting for Stage and Screen

Ages 5+

Using TV and theatre scripts and innovative acting techniques, the students learn how to act truthfully with intention and skill. We look at acting techniques for both stage and screen allowing the students to apply the notable differences making them employable within the industry. This is an important class especially for children on our agency.

Two young KWA students performing a scene on stage

LAMDA

By arrangement

This class is for the more experienced young performer as our students work towards taking solo LAMDA Acting exams. Please get in touch with Kitty before signing up to this class. LAMDA are an awarding organisation, delivering world-renowned qualifications in communication and performance and inspiring the next generation of confident communicators through their examinations in drama, literature and poetry. We also offer LAMDA exams through our 1-2-1 Singing lessons.

2 Week Trial for £15

Choosing the right theatre school for your child is an important decision, which is why we offer a two-week trial. We believe it takes more than a single class to truly experience our school!

For just £15, your child can enjoy two weeks in any class of their choice, giving them the opportunity to build confidence, make new friends, and discover whether KWA is the right school for them. At the end of the trial, you can make your decision with confidence, knowing you’ve experienced two weeks of what we have to offer.

Excludes 1-2-1 Singing lessons.

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Fees & Discounts

Classes are paid for monthly and range from £28pm to £77pm. We offer multiple class discounts for children who attend 5 or more classes. We also offer online classes on Friday evenings.

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Progress

Exams & Competitions

#KWAKids are encouraged to take part in both local and national Musical Theatre competitions and complete examinations to track their progress.

100% pass rate

LAMDA (Acting & Musical Theatre), IDTA (Ballet), Tap (ISTD) and Modern (ISTD) exams.

Regular podium places

Our students regularly place 1st, 2nd and 3rd at local competitions.

National champion

Student Harriet O'Shea (aged 9) won the national West End Calling competition in 2025.

The Kitty Watson Academy team at a KWA event

Ready to start?

Please use the application form or give us a call and we will gladly set up a time to talk and discuss your options.