The S.L.T.A (Sleaford Little Theatre Academy) for young people aged 8 - 18 years offers a wide variety of performing arts workshops and bespoke projects along with creating dynamic, diverse and inclusive theatre. We encourage members to learn a myriad of creative skills while having fun in a safe theatre space.
Please read all the following information carefully before completing your application to ensure you select the best group for your budding actor. This is their chance to be a part of something spectacular – don't miss out!
''Accepting children as they are today and providing a springboard to what they can become''
Join the Sleaford Little Theatre Academy for an unforgettable adventure!
Get ready for the opportunity of the year! The Sleaford Little Theatre Academy has been picked to be a part of the National Theatre Connections programme for 2025 – a prestigious nationwide youth theatre festival that showcases young talent!
Why you can't miss this
Double the Staging, Double the Fun! - Not only will our Connections participants get to perform at the charming Sleaford Playhouse during our regular show week, but they'll also shine on the grand stage of the Nottingham Playhouse as part of the Connections Festival!
Dream Bigger! - Imagine the thrill of possibly being selected to perform at the National Theatre Festival in London! This event takes place between late June / early July 2025. Will it be OUR moment to dazzle the nation's theatre lovers? We are keeping everything crossed!
New Group Dynamics for Maximum Engagement!
We’re reimagining our groups for next term to make sure every young actor finds their perfect spotlight!
Two thrilling paths to choose from
SLTA NT Connections Group - For those ready to dive into the exciting journey of the National Theatre Connections programme, who meet the age criteria, and can commit to the schedule.
SLTA Stars Group - An equally exhilarating option for our talented young actors who want to continue honing their skills with stellar performances and training sessions tailored just for them!
Please read the following information carefully to ensure you select the best group for your budding actor. This is their chance to be a part of something spectacular – don't miss out!
SLTA NT Connections Group: Saturdays 2 pm – 4 pm (25 places available)
To join this group all participants must be:
- 13 years old or above by 31st May 2025 (this age criteria is set by the National Theatre not SLTA).
- able to commit to the group for 3 full terms, up to Summer 2025
- available to take part in the Connections show at SLT which runs week commencing Monday 31st March 2025
- able to commit to a full day of rehearsals on Sunday 30th March 2025
- able to commit to performance dates at Nottingham Playhouse that are currently planned for 17th – 19th April 2025 plus extra refresher rehearsals during the previous week.
- available to perform at the National Theatre in London, late June / early July, if we are selected.
This group will run every Saturday during term time (see below) from 2 pm – 4 pm.
Registration for this SLTA NT Connections Group closes on Friday 20th September 2024.
SLTA Stars Group: Saturdays 11 am – 1 pm (30 places available)
To join this group all participants must be 8 years old or above by 21st September 2024.
This group will be performing their own fabulous show at Sleaford Playhouse during week commencing Monday 31st March 2025 with a full day of rehearsals on Sunday 30th March 2025.
Participation in the show is optional when joining this group. However, please be aware that after the first half term, classes will primarily focus on show rehearsals rather than general workshops. If they wish to take part in the show, they must be able to commit to the full day and dress rehearsals plus all performances during show week. We need to know if your child wishes to participate in the show before we complete the casting on Saturday, November 9th.
This group will run every Saturday during term time (see below) from 11 am – 1 pm.
Registration for this SLTA Stars Group will remain open while places are still available, and participants can reasonably be included in the show if they wish to be.
Our Classes
Drama and theatre classes for children and young people aged 8 -18 years, to take place in the theatre on Saturdays during term time. Classes will be designed to support participants in developing confidence and self-expression through practical theatre training and taught by experienced and dedicated theatre-makers leading to a performance in a real theatre space.
More great reasons to join the Academy:
- Great value for money - just £10 per week for 2 hours
- Run by friendly and experienced teachers with full DBS certificates
- No auditions will be required to join the classes or youth shows
- Academy members will also have the opportunity to audition for SLT adult members' shows when youth actors are required and will not be subject to any extra youth membership fees
- Everyone involved will have the opportunity to perform for friends and family in an annual academy production for 2/3 performances on the SLT stage
Our Fees
£120 per term (12 weeks)
If you have any questions about fees or the availability of places, please email the lead teachers, Maria and Joanne at academy@sleafordlittletheatre.co.uk.
Our Teachers
Joanne Moules
Joanne achieved a National BTEC Diploma in Performing Arts and went on to work as part of a professional production team at the Birmingham School of Acting (formerly The Birmingham School of Speech & Drama) producing up to 15 full-scale productions a year and teaching Stage Management and Technical Theatre. Within her 3-year role at the company, she was privileged to experience a wide array of roles from Dresser to Company Stage Manager and learnt that ‘every role is vital’.
Since leaving the professional theatre to live in Sleaford and have her son, Jo has been using her talents more ‘on stage’ rather than ‘backstage’ and has performed in many full-scale productions with local theatre companies. Her passion is for all things theatrical and has wide-ranging expertise in backstage skills and technical theatre.
Maria Bates
Maria has worked as a freelance drama teacher for over 25 years, directing youth and adult productions, delivering performance arts scholarships, Theatre In Education shows and workshops in dozens of schools, academies and theatres throughout London, the South East and Lincolnshire. She held the position of Training Director and Child Protection Officer at South London Theatre for 3 years.
She brings with her extensive experience of directing and drama facilitation, specialising in giving children the opportunity to grow and develop their confidence, teamwork and communication skills through practical theatre training.
Both Jo and Maria believe that the arts are a vital creative outlet that MUST be nurtured and encouraged at all levels. They are honoured to work alongside each other at this groundbreaking Academy and guide your children through their own theatrical journey, wherever they wish it to lead.