PQA Darlington is a weekend performing arts academy for children and young people, offering fun, high-quality sessions in acting, singing, dance, musical theatre, comedy, and filmmaking.

Our performing arts classes take place every Saturday and Sunday, based at the Hummersknott Academy.

At PQA Darlington, we offer a unique three-part performing arts programme for children aged 4–18. Each weekly session includes:

There’s no need to choose just one area, our three-hour sessions give children the chance to explore all three disciplines every week.

Led by Principal Laura and a talented team of performing arts professionals, PQA Darlington is more than just an acting club or drama school. We’re committed to helping children grow in confidence, creativity, communication, and resilience – skills that last a lifetime.

dance classes

Engaging and imaginative classes for children.

Different from an acting club or acting school, children delve into a breathe of activities around all elements of the performing arts. From Screenplay writing to dance classes, singing lessons and so much more! In addition to the exciting opportunities available at PQA, we also offer children the opportunity to delve into other creative aspects of the performing arts industry. Our team of industry professionals are here to help, guide and nurture your child on whichever path they choose: Comedy and Drama, Musical Theatre or Television and Film. Whether that be performing on-stage at His Majesty's Theatre in the West End to seeing your child's latest Film & TV work on the big screen, there's something for everyone at PQA. Take a look below at the exciting things we have coming up at PQA Darlington.

Get started and book your free session today! We can’t wait to meet you and your child at a session soon.

If you have a passion for singing, a love of dancing, perhaps you want to be the next big film director, or you just want to have fun while learning new skills, come and give us a visit. Book your free session today!

main academy
Ages 6-18
dance school
Our Main Academy sessions offer young performers, actors and filmmakers a 3-hour experience, with an hour spent in each
of our three modules.
Poppets
Ages 4-6
acting school
Our 90-minute Poppets classes introduce young children to singing, dancing, and acting, helping them build skills, and explore
new adventures together.
Your PQA Journey
pqa journey
Watch My PQA Journey here to get a glimpse inside PQA. Skye will guide you through everything to expect when you join your local academy.

PQA Darlington.

BOOK YOUR FREE SESSION

Poppets
4 - 6 years
Saturday | 10:00 - 11:30
Limited availability
Check Availability
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Main Academy
6 - 18 years
Saturday | 09:45 - 13:00
Limited availability
Check Availability
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Main Academy
6 - 18 years
Saturday | 13:45 - 17:00
Places available
Book Now
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free session:
We welcome children and teens to try our performing arts classes by attending a full session at no charge. Come along and discover what makes PQA so unique, meet the team and join in the fun!

Your academy Principal will let you know how to become a member after your free session. Your child’s place is held for a few days after your session, giving you time to decide if PQA is the right choice for your child.
Fees:
  • Poppets
    4 - 6 years
  • £46.00
  • per month
  • Main Academy
    6 - 18 years
  • £92.00
  • per month
  • Main Academy Sibling
  • £69.00
  • per month

how to find us?

academy location
Enquiries
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Term Dates.

Academy Notices and Projects.

Academy notices, projects and events at PQA Darlington
musical-theatre classes
  • Musical Theatre
  • Classes blending acting, dancing and singing.
Read More
comedy drama classes
  • Comedy & Drama
  • Acting classes in a fun, supportive environment.
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film and tv classes
  • Film & Television
  • Hands-on experience in acting for the camera and making films.
Read More

Meet The Team.

principal performing arts
Principal
Laura Lonsdale
Email Me
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Hello, my name is Laura I have been a principal for ten years and I adore every minute of it! As a proud "Smoggy", born and bred in Middlesbrough, I have a passion to bring a high standard of performance industry training to the area and most importantly to you, the next generation of performers. Become different characters, sing like no one is listening, dance like no one is watching and most importantly be yourself. Gain the confidence, techniques and determination to stand out in a crowd.

read more...