Business Details
20 Years
experience
Performing Arts Education in Milton Keynes
Arts1 was founded in 2006 with a vision to nurture performing arts talent through innovative education and industry-aligned training. Our institution has earned recognition for its caring approach to student development, including the BTEC Showstopper Award in 2018. We combine expertise from leading drama schools with cutting-edge methodologies like Estill Voice Training, the only UK degree program with this accreditation. Our faculty comprises experienced professionals from theatre, music, and television, including internationally renowned vocal coach James Grimsey. The school's expansion from one weekly class to a full-time studio with 30+ staff demonstrates our commitment to accessible, high-quality arts education. Our purpose-built Milton Keynes facility features eight rehearsal spaces, a studio theatre, and dedicated vocal booths.We maintain strong industry connections through partnerships with agents, casting directors, and production companies. Our graduates have successfully entered professional theatre, with recent alumni performing in major West End productions. The school's unique approach balances technical skill development with artistic identity cultivation. We offer tailored programs for all ages, from children's Saturday classes to our BA(Hons) Musical Theatre degree. Our London Showcase provides final-year students direct exposure to industry professionals. The institution's philosophy emphasizes that artistic excellence emerges from personalized training and practical experience.
Services
Performing Arts Classes
Degree Programs
Individual Coaching
Saturday School
Adult Classes
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Our faculty includes industry professionals like Estill Mentor James Grimsey
- UK's only Musical Theatre degree with Estill Voice Training accreditation
- Purpose-built facilities with eight rehearsal spaces and studio theatre
- Proven track record preparing students for West End and professional theatre
- Personalised coaching with 35+ contact hours weekly for degree students
Associations and certifications
- BTEC Showstopper Awards
- Estill Voice Training
What people say
Nurturing environment
Expert teaching staff
Visible student progress
Industry connections
Supportive atmosphere
Services
BA(Hons) Musical Theatre
Our three-year conservatoire-style degree develops triple-threat performers through intensive training in dance, singing, and acting. Students receive 35+ weekly contact hours with industry professionals, including Estill Voice Training. The program includes practical experience with West End creatives and culminates in a London Showcase for agents and casting directors.
Individual Coaching
One-to-one sessions tailored to individual needs, covering vocal training, acting techniques, and instrument skills. Our expert coaches provide personalized development plans for students aged 4 to adult, focusing on technical improvement and artistic growth in a supportive environment.
Saturday School
Three-hour Saturday programs for ages 4-16 combining dance, singing, and acting training. These sessions develop core performance skills through practical exercises and group work, preparing young performers for potential careers in the performing arts industry.
Adult Classes
Specialized performing arts courses for adults over 18, focusing on skill development in dance, singing, and acting. Classes are designed to accommodate varying experience levels, providing a supportive environment for personal growth and potential career advancement.
Facilities Hire
Access to state-of-the-art performing arts facilities including eight rehearsal rooms, a 120-seat studio theatre, and dedicated vocal booths. Our purpose-built Milton Keynes campus provides optimal environments for practice, recording, and professional performance preparation.
People
Rebecca Carrington
Principal & Co-Founder
Co-founded Arts1 in 2006 with James Grimsey. Brings extensive performing arts education experience, having developed the school from one weekly class to a full-time institution with 30+ staff. Focuses on nurturing student potential through innovative teaching methods.
James Grimsey
Co-Founder & Estill Mentor
Internationally recognized Estill Voice coach and co-founder of Arts1. Combines expertise from leading drama schools with industry experience to shape the institution's vocal training programs. Holds Estill Mentor and Course Instructor (EMCI) status, one of few in the UK.
Allyson Ava-Brown
Visiting Tutor
Award-winning performer with West End experience, including roles in 'Hamilton' and 'Bear Behaving Badly'. Contributes industry insights through masterclasses and practical training sessions for advanced students.
Amy Shackcloth
Music Director
Established music director with experience in London's West End and international productions. Currently serves as keys player for ABBA Voyage, sharing professional expertise with Arts1 students.
Adam Scott
Choreographer & Tutor
Recognized choreographer with international teaching experience. Brings industry-standard dance training to Arts1 students, drawing from work with major UK production companies and institutions.
Questions
Can I try a free trial before enrolling?
Yes, we offer a two-week free trial for our Evening & Weekend School programs. Contact us to arrange your trial period.
What performing arts courses do you offer?
We provide dance, singing, and acting classes for ages 2-18, adult programs, and our BA(Hons) Musical Theatre degree. Specialized coaching and Saturday school programs are also available.
What facilities do you have available?
Our Milton Keynes campus features eight rehearsal rooms, a 120-seat studio theatre, dedicated vocal booths, sprung dance floors, and industry-standard recording equipment.
How do you prepare students for professional theatre?
Through our industry connections, masterclasses with West End professionals, London Showcase events, and practical training that mirrors professional rehearsal environments.
What are your audition requirements?
For degree programs, prepare two songs (musical theatre and pop), participate in a jazz dance class, perform an acting monologue, and attend an informal interview.
Do you have notable alumni?
Yes, our graduates have performed in major West End productions including 'Hamilton', 'Waitress', and 'Come From Away', with many securing representation through our industry networks.
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