Swindon’s Shoebox Theatre is throwing open its doors for a taster session in acting classes.

On Saturday, January 26, students aged four-18-years get the opportunity to experience workshops and meet the directors and teachers at the Shoebox new venue of the Health Hydro in Milton Road.

Students will be introduced to a range of drama techniques and theatrical forms, including physical theatre, comedy, devising, improvisation and working with text. These classes are challenging, educational and enjoyable - with a focus on exploring acting techniques in a fun and accessible way, including Shoebox Minis for ages 4-6, which encourages students to have fun with drama, build confidence through imaginative play and theatre games. To find out more about the Shoebox and their work For more details visit www.shoeboxtheatre.org.uk

The Shoebox Juniors run from 11am to noon and are taster classes for ages 7-10, which focus on exploring theatre making through fun, yet challenging workshops.

The Shoebox Young Company taster sessions run from 2.30pm-3.30pm. This is a theatre company for dedicated students aged 15-18, who are passionate about working in theatre. Participants will develop a further insight into established methods and techniques, leading to a professionally led performance twice a year – rehearsals and workshops are both practical and challenging. Entrance is by audition only, which will be held later in the year.

Since launching in February 2017, the Shoebox Theatre, which was based in Theatre Square, has fast become Swindon’s go-to space for performance training and contemporary theatre. With a growing professional theatre programme, the introduction of drama classes for ages 4+ and a new theatre company for young people, the current space had become unsuitable.

Luke Marquez, Artistic Director of the Shoebox Theatre, said: “Our Theatre Square building couldn’t provide us with the space we needed to expand, so we had to look at moving to a bigger building with room for an office, dressing rooms and a studio. The rooms within the Health Hydro offer us everything we need and more.”

The Shoebox Theatre will be taking up residence in the rooms that originally housed the Victorian laundry.

“We are really looking forward to relocating and it will be a privilege to move into such an iconic and treasured building. With its high ceilings and Victorian character, the space is perfect for both theatre and classes. We cannot wait to breathe new life into the spaces,” said Luke.

Although the overall footprint of the Shoebox will increase, the theatre space will still stay true to its name and maintain its intimate proportions.

“Although we are expanding, keeping the Shoebox as a smaller fringe venue has always been vital to what we do and supports our charitable aims. We can offer something unique to the artistic landscape of Swindon and provide a more accessible platform for emerging artists. Wrong Shoes Theatre Company, our resident company of the Shoebox, has also recently secured Arts Council Funding to develop their next show, so it’s really an exciting time for the organisation.”

To find out more about the Shoebox and their work visit www.shoeboxtheatre.org.uk