THE COURSE

The ATS year is divided into three terms.

Term 1 focuses on foundations. Mornings are dedicated to developing voice and movement. Afternoons are dedicated to masterclasses. Experts in their field conduct sessions on a variety of topics, as diverse as Shakespeare and the classics, modern text work, improvisation, audition technique, radio technique and stage fighting.

On occasions, students will have the added benefit of being joined by working professionals with a particular interest in the topic that day.

Previous tutors include actors Ray Winstone, Kevin McNally, Frances Barber, Elliot Barnes-Worrell and Deabhla Molloy. We have also recently welcomed casting director, Amy Jackson, BBC radio drama producer, Celia de Wolff and TV and film director, Robin Sheppard.

The end of term 1 is a significant time for ATS students. It is at this stage that it will be decided which term 2/3 course would benefit you most. Normally students will proceed to the workshop programme; however, those with more advanced skills may be offered a place on the performance course.

What’s the difference?
The Workshop Programme is designed to build on and develop skills learnt in term 1. Further focussed sessions on voice and movement are supplemented with an opportunity to be involved in a small performance project. On occasions, there may be an opportunity either to understudy a part in a Performance Course, or to be part of the ensemble.

The Performance Course is geared much more towards learning through being involved in a fully-fledged production whilst maintaining sessions geared towards developing movement and voice skills. The production will always be directed by an industry professional and will take place in July, to which will be invited various casting directors and agents. The rehearsals will be run exactly like a professional theatre company, and strict theatre discipline will be required. Rehearsals take place on Saturdays and on some Sundays.

And here is why ATS is unique.
When you have finished the course, you are permitted to ask to repeat the course the next year because the structure is such that no two years are precisely the same and your skills will develop.