About us
Class Act was founded by Rachel Sykes in 2006. Rachel identified a need for accessible, good quality theatre classes and the need to provide positive activities for young people throughout Blackpool.
Class Act prides itself on being a Theatre school with a difference, rather than just teaching children performing arts we endeavour to teach life skills, confidence and leadership skills aiding their development into adult life.
Class Act is managed by a voluntary board of Trustees whose expertise and knowledge guide the structure of the organisation whilst fulfilling their roles on the board.
Our work
Over that past four years we have developed a reputation for delivering a high quality children’s performing arts service. We continue to build up regular classes whilst doing commissioned work for various organisations such as Holy Family Holiday Club, Barnardos, Mental health drop in centres, Blackpool Arts service, Blackpool Coastal Housing and Blackpool Council Children services.
All commissioned work and outreach projects are subject to an evaluation process to identify the benefit for the people we have worked with. Class Act is happy to work in all areas of Blackpool to give everyone a chance to attend performing arts classes.
Our doors are open to everyone; to book your place call or email. See our events timetable for dates and times.
Our team
Class Act Theatre school is run by a group of dedicated, experienced and qualified tutors and staff. On hand to help you each week is a school principal that will answer any questions that may arise, and ensure a safe and enjoyable environment is provided while you are with us.
The Class Act team includes:
Rachel Sykes
Rachel is on hand to ensure everything at Class Act runs smoothly. An experienced coordinator of Saturday Theatre Schools in the area has led Rachel to recognize and realise the talent and potential of youngsters, whilst also making their learning fun and enjoyable.
Debbie Miller
I have years of experience of working with children within school and nurseries, and have been a licensed chaperone for many dance schools in external productions over the last six years.
I am on hand to assist with the running of Class Act activities and I am available to be contacted on Thursday and Friday for an other enquiries. I co-ordinate the volunteer programme and the fundraising group. Please feel free to contact me if you think you can help out at Class Act.
Laura Ann-Gill
With over 10 years of experience as a professional singer, dancer and a choreographer, Laura has a lifetime of experience in the commercial industry. During her time in the industry, Laura has worked with various artists, naming just a few; Gwen Stefani, George Michael, Kayne West and Geri Haliwell and other credits include The Brit Awards 2005 & 2006, The MTV Awards and The Royal Variety Show.
Congratulations to Laura who recently won the 'over 18, advanced solo's' at the UDO World Street Dance Championships 2009.
Margaret Adereti
"I believe that every child has a desire, or should we call it a dream. It may not be to headline in a West End show but to step out onto a stage and sing is such a powerful experience. In my singing lessons I want every child to feel that buzz you get from performing.
During lessons we work on many vocal skills, including dynamics, pitch, projection, vocal support, breathing techniques, natural performance, lyric and song writing and solo and ensemble singing, all of which are taught in a relaxed and encouraging atmosphere."
Margaret has 19 years of experience and is highly regarded throughout Blackpool as the top vocal coach.
Suzanne Kennion
Suzanne Carlyle (Kennion) is an expressive arts workshop leader, currently working in local schools and colleges following her PGCE graduation from Blackpool and the Fylde. Prior to this qualification Suzanne’s background is in performance working on the stage and studying her HND in touring theatre and degree in performance art at University of central Lancashire. As a performance Artist Suzanne has used her skill to create pieces for exhibitions, Showing documented performances in art galleries in Barrow, Blackpool, Preston, Manchester. Suzanne believes that art is not only a necessity for expression but also a valuable education tool to facilitate change
