Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Performing Arts in Devon
Shakespeare’s famous poem ‘All the World’s a Stage’ highlights the seven phases of life and at the 
first stage of life many youngsters take the route to acquiring confidence by treading the boards. Indeed, the performing arts will help children secure a solid foundation of skills that will help them on the wider stage of life…
- They will gain self-belief. All types of performing arts throw an emotional challenge to children in a cushioned sort of way. Performing in front of others, be it dancing, acting, or playing a musical instrument requires focus and a level of self-assurance. As children grow, they will learn the best way to overcome fear is to face it.
- They will learn how to persevere. The performance may be fun, but it isn’t always easy. When the going gets tough, children are challenged to learn ways of coping. By being in the company of so many positive people, such as teachers, coaches and peers, youngsters often learn the priceless ability to pick themselves up and keep going.
- They will have a chance to flourish. The extrovert child will have the chance to show off his or her exuberance, whilst a more introverted youngster will have the opportunity to open up under the pretence of playing a different character or by getting absorbed in the performance.
- They will be taught the value of teamwork and empathy. As most performing arts disciplines involve working in a group, pupils are taught how to work as a valuable part of a team. They gain empathy by learning how to see life from another performer’s or character’s viewpoint.
- They will have fun. Many children want to get involved in a performing art because they find the workshops, classes and team-spirit fun and enlightening. Even if a future Oscar ceremony isn’t on the cards, children can gain enormous confidence and invaluable social skills from the performing arts which will help carry them through life.
To reap the rewards of the performing arts disciplines sign your child up to a class near you…
Buckingham Dance Studios
Call: 07917 848081
www.buckinghamdancestudios.com
Pupils at Buckingham Dance Studios in both Paignton and Totnes are busily rehearsing for what will be their biggest ever annual production at The Princess Theatre Torquay this Christmas. The children rehearsing at the Chapel House branch in Totnes are very excited to be included in The Nutcracker and Queen tribute show, which includes all forms of dance on Saturday 5 December. The Totnes studio is really taking off with new pupils joining daily.
The Exeter Academy of Dance.png)
Tel: 01392 824453
www.exeteracademyofdance.co.uk
The Exeter Academy of Dance has branches in Exeter and Okehampton. It offers ballet, modern, street dance and tap classes for children of all abilities and welcomes both girls and boys. Students have the opportunity to take part in shows, workshops, festivals and exams. All lessons are taught by fully qualified and CRB checked teachers. Call Suzie Amiet for more information and to book a free trial session.
The Katherine Mitchell School of Dance.png)
Call: 07969 669315
www.kmitchelldance.co.uk
The Katharine Mitchell School of Dance is based in Crediton and offers a large range of classes in ballet, modern, street dance, pre-school Ballet, musical theatre, classical Greek, contemporary, tap, pointe repertoire and adult ballet. Children and adults of all ages and abilities are welcome to attend and experience the joy of learning to dance in a safe and caring environment. Pupils also have the opportunity to participate in the annual dance show and the region's dance festivals.
Stage by Stage
Tel: 01392 211244
www.stagebystage.co.uk
Stage by Stage is Exeter’s own theatre arts training school with one major distinction: its students perform at large scale shows, such as Annie at the Northcott Theatre and Cats at the Edinburgh Festival. Nothing can improve performance skills and self-confidence than by taking part in fully staged shows with costumes, scenery, lights and real live audiences. Its students have gone on to star in Mamma Mia, Oliver!, Singing in the Rain, Dirty Dancing and Mary Poppins in London's West End.
The Drama School
Call: 01626 821425
www.thedramaschoolexeter.co.uk
The Drama School, Exeter and Ashburton, has a friendly and busy environment where students of all ages find a welcome and can excel. Its Youth groups are part of Connections 500 with the National Theatre and The All England Theatre Festival. LAMDA and Vanguard Examinations are great for skills and confidence. Plus there are groups for drama skills, plays and meeting new friends. The Drama School offers plays, festivals, workshops, holiday projects and audition preparation.