Inspire your child through performance in Birmingham
Searching for weekend performing arts classes in Birmingham? At the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts, we provide a complete programme of acting, musical theatre, singing, and dance classes in the Birmingham area designed for children and young people aged 4 to 18 years.
Our ethos is to help every child develop self-belief through performing arts training in a safe, structured and fun environment. PQA is more than just a drama school – it’s a place where children discover their voice and learn skills that last a lifetime.
Parents in the Birmingham area choose PQA because our academies combine professional teaching with a warm and supportive atmosphere. No auditions or prior experience are needed – we welcome every child who wants to try something new. Our teaching teams drawn from theatre, film, and TV, share their professional knowledge and passion for the arts.
Children gain much more than performance skills. They get to nurture their creativity and release their full potential, supporting their academic journey and everyday life.
Our classes are carefully structured for each age group:
Ages 4 - 6: Creative play with songs, roleplay and movement that introduce children to the world of performance.
Ages 6 - 18: More advanced training across acting, musical theatre and filmmaking, with clear progression and opportunities as children grow.
These pathways ensure that every child has the right balance of fun, structure and challenge at each stage of their development.
The benefits of PQA extend beyond the stage. Parents frequently notice improvements in confidence, communication, memory and teamwork. Children also learn how to handle nerves, accept feedback, and persevere when things are challenging. These are life lessons as valuable as the skills learned on stage. Friendships built at PQA often last for years, as children become part of a supportive community that encourages creativity and mutual respect.
What age can my child start? → From 4 years old.
Is there a trial session? → Yes, families can book a free trial class to experience PQA before enrolling.
Does my child need any experience? → Not at all, we welcome beginners and more experienced children alike.
What makes PQA different from other weekend drama schools? → Our unique blend of acting, musical theatre and Film & TV training, delivered by professional teachers, gives children a broad performing arts education that helps them discover themselves and grow into happy, confident people.