HAVE you always wanted to try acting but never had the opportunity? Are you looking to release your inner Meryl Streep or Anthony Hopkins?

Well, it is never too late. Since launching last year, the Shoebox Theatre has been running acting classes for adult beginners, teaching students a wide range of acting skills to get them started in the craft.

Led by Luke Marquez, artistic director, the next course starts at the end of April and is focused on comedy and improvisation skills, so you can expect slapstick humour, playful improvisations and lots of laughter.

Luke, who has been teaching adult beginners for over eight years, originally started the classes to give adults the chance to learn new skills and build confidence.

“There were lots of opportunities for adults to take part in amateur theatre, but not many opportunities for adults to learn technique and acting skills outside of London,” he said.

The next 10-week course for beginners aged 18 and over costs £70. It starts on Thursday April 26 at 7.30pm. To book, visit shoeboxtheatre.org.uk.