Excitement was building last weekend as PQA Carlisle, a new branch of the prestigious Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA), opened its doors in Carlisle.
The academy, which offers a variety of performing arts classes every Sunday to young people aged 4 to 18, held its first sessions at Harraby Community Campus on Sunday, September 22.
Classes allow students to nurture their talents across three dynamic modules: Musical Theatre, Comedy and Drama, and Film and Television.
The academy, headed by Principal Michael Fenwick, promises a vibrant, creative space for students to explore the performing arts. Fenwick, who brings over a decade of experience as a PQA Principal, is enthusiastic about the academy’s launch and eager to introduce students to the world of performing arts.
He said: "I am so thrilled to be the principal of PQA Carlisle. Sunday’s launch day was fantastic. The experienced teaching team and I were thrilled to welcome our new students to the PQA Carlisle family. It’s been a pleasure managing academies in the north of England for almost 12 years, and I’m extremely passionate about sharing my industry experience with young people. I look forward to bringing amazing opportunities to the young performers of Cumbria."
Fenwick’s extensive background in music, performing arts, and film and television education, including his work in theatre and broadcast television, helps to set PQA Carlisle apart. He has had a distinguished career working on programmes such as Grange Hill and Hollyoaks.
He added: "I find sharing industry skills with students incredibly rewarding. With a dedicated and passionate team, I can’t wait for our students to experience taking part in our exciting projects including local theatre showcases and our West End Show at His Majesty’s Theatre. PQA students also get to experience walking the red carpet at our spectacular Cinema screenings."
At PQA Carlisle, students aged 6 to 18 will spend three hours each Sunday learning a wide range of performing arts skills through three modules:
For the youngest aspiring stars, aged 4 to 5, the Poppets class offers an early introduction to performing arts in a fun and supportive environment.
The academy runs every Sunday from 10am to 1pm.
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