YOUNG performers will be able to hone their skills at new acting classes at Swindon's Shoebox Theatre.

Form the end of September, the theatre is opening its doors to young performers aged 13-18, with weekly sessions training students in a range of acting techniques, including script work, comedy, devising, improvisation and physical theatre.

“The courses have been designed to give young performers a good foundation in a variety of acting skills, which will be invaluable for those looking to continue studying or working in the performing arts,” said Luke Marquez, artistic director of the Shoebox.

“We have been running classes and masterclasses for professional actors aged 18plus for a number of years now and people travel from all over the country to train with us. We wanted to give younger students the chance to train with us as well.

"The courses will help to build the confidence of our students and introduce them to new disciplines and techniques. We want our students to become well-rounded performers, and prepare them for the next stage in their development.”

The Shoebox Theatre has a great track record for nurturing the careers of young actors and over the last couple of years have seen students successfully audition for drama schools including East 15, Rose Bruford and Fourth Monkey, as well as at universities.

“I have been training with the Shoebox Theatre for two years and have now been offered a place at drama school, starting in September. The courses and masterclasses at the Shoebox, gave me the confidence and skills I needed to progress my career as an actor,” said Louise Catherwood, a student at the Shoebox Theatre.

Managed by Wrong Shoes Theatre Company, the Shoebox is a 47-seat studio theatre located in the centre of Swindon.

It produces and programmes professional contemporary theatre and provides training opportunities for students aged 13 plus and adults. Award-winning actress, Billie Piper became the patron of the Shoebox, when it officially launched in February 2017.

“Venues like the Shoebox are really wonderful and important. When I was growing up in Swindon, I came through the traditional drama training routes, which are great, but the Shoebox Theatre offers alternative ways of developing skills and gaining experience, which is really, really exciting.” said Billie.

To find out more about the classes and how to get involved visit www.shoeboxtheatre.org.uk/train