Our course
The ATS year is divided into three terms.
The first term focuses on foundations. Mornings are dedicated to developing voice and movement. Afternoons are dedicated to masterclasses. Experts in their field conduct lessons 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.
Masterclass with Ray Winstone
Lesson with Amanda Redman at our studio, West Ealing
The end of the first term 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.
Workshop Programme
The Workshop Programme is designed to build on and develop skills learnt in term one. 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.
Performance Course
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.
Cast of Nell Gwynn
Practical points to note:
There is a basic code of conduct for those who are accepted into ATS.
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Class times are 12:00-6:00pm each Saturday during the first term. After this, we may require earlier attendance, but this will be confirmed nearer the time.
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Fees are £350 per term.
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Commitment is demonstrated by regular attendance and full participation. You are expected to be in the studio at least 10 minutes before the start of any class, properly dressed and ready to work. Any absence should be notified in advance and should only be for extremely good reason.
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Classes take place on Saturdays during the first term. During the second and third terms, for those involved in productions, rehearsals may also be called on Sundays. Remember that the consequence of maintaining smaller classes for your benefit, is that absences can affect the dynamic of the class.
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The fees are kept artificially low, but those fees must be paid promptly before the first day of term. You should not assume that special arrangements will be made, although in exceptional circumstances, they will be considered.
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You are, at all times, when involved in ATS activities, an ambassador for the school. Busy professionals give up their valuable time to assist you. You must behave at all times with the same professionalism that they would expect from colleagues.
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ATS students in classes are expected to wear black clothing in which they can move freely, which includes appropriate footwear.
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Despite these rules, it is our ambition that you thrive and learn whilst having a fulfilling and enjoyable time. We will do all we can to deliver that aspiration. We have selected you because we believe that you share in that.