Local performing arts students are excited to be giving back to younger performers as they come together to work on Pauline Quirke Academy Peterborough’s forthcomings shows – Oliver Jr. at the Key Theatre in June, and brand-new musical adventure ‘Across the Line’ at Her Majesty’s Theatre in the West End in November.
Having progressed on to their own full-time training in performing arts, they are now back at the Academy as part of the Teaching Assistant team.
PQA prides itself on the pathway it provides for young people to investigate their skills, be creative and build their confidence in a safe and encouraging environment. It is testament to Principal, Maureen Wardill, and the whole team at PQA Peterborough to see that young people can’t get enough of the academy, and want to help.
Rhyanna and Caroline both joined PQA the day it opened its doors in Peterborough nearly six years ago on 22nd April 2017. They both went on to take principal roles in the West End show ‘Trouble’s a Brewin’ in Albuquerque’ in November 2019 and since then have gone from strength to strength.
As the Academy expanded one year later, opening an afternoon session, Jess and Izzy signed up straight away, and both were made Group Prefects very soon after, due to their commitment and leadership skills.
Rhyanna, who is currently studying towards a Musical Theatre Degree, remembers the moment she stepped on the West End stage as the protagonist of the show, Annie. She said: “I was so nervous about getting the pitch right in one of my solos, I kept saying to myself ‘I’m gonna get it right’, over and over. But once I got on stage it all fell into place and I’ve not looked back! I am thrilled to be able to pass on my own experience and come back to the Academy where it all started for me”.
Caroline was very passionate in the Film & TV module and played a key role in award winning film ‘Awkward!’. For this film Caroline not only wrote the script and directed the piece, but also played a part in the film.
“When I first stepped into Film & TV class I felt immediately inspired,” said Caroline. It was wonderful to be involved in something so new to me and I found it really challenging. Then being involved in the West End show brought out my confidence and inspired me to study Dance full time at college. It’s a pleasure to be a part of helping younger students to gain their confidence in the same way I did’.
PQA Peterborough operates on Saturdays at The Peterborough School in Thorpe Road. There is a morning and an afternoon Academy where students study Musical theatre, Film & TV and Comedy & Drama. The Academy is recruiting students for its forthcoming shows now.
Find more about PQA Peterborough here
Yes! Every academy offers one free trial session, as long as there is space available in the age group. If the group is currently full, you can join the waiting list, and we’ll contact you as soon as a place becomes available.
PQA runs for 41 weeks throughout the school year. You can find the full list of term dates on each academy’s webpage, just search for your local academy and visit its web page.
PQA provides performing arts training for children and teens aged 4–18. Our Main Academy (ages 6–18) includes three core classes:
Some academies also offer Poppets (ages 4–6), an energetic 90-minute class introducing young children to singing, dancing and acting.
PQA welcomes all children, whether they’re complete beginners or already confident performers. There’s no audition needed to join.
At PQA students in Main Academy are grouped by age, learning with other children and young people at similar stages.
This depends on where you feel your child will be happiest. Some 6-year olds are ready to join the 6-9 age group in Main Academy, others will feel more comfortable starting in Poppets.
Your always welcome to discuss what’s best for your child with your local Principal before booking your free session.