Songtime Theatre Arts
Songtime Theatre Arts is a professional part time theatre arts school, operating primarily in the United Kingdom, with branches in the USA. Training is offered in singing, dancing and acting.
Overview
Songtime Theatre Arts splits it's students into two group, under 12's and over 13s. Founded in 1989 in Isleworth, by Matthew Chandler, and has now expanded to include schools throughout the UK.
Membership is only available after an extensive audition process. After a primary audition, candidates will then be placed in a weekly school at which they will rehearse for a MusicAL. Once this has been successfully staged, selected candidates will officially be Songtime members (no further audition is necessary). The next production will then be selected based on the talent within the new company.
Songtime also operates a two week summer school in August.
'The Vanessas'
Founded in 1991, 'The Songtime Awards' were started to celebrate the performances and members within the company. In 2002, they were renamed 'The Vanessas' in memory of Songtime member Vanessa Cavanagh. Vanessa herself was a Best Actress winner, and the Recipient of the Mary Chandler singing trophy.
Songtime Agency
The Songtime agency is open to most members after their first year of tuition.
Notable Alumni
Songtime members have performed at the Royal Variety Show, the Eurovision Song Contest, and the Queen's Golden Jubilee.
- Charlie Brooks
- Preeya Kalidas
- Joanna Kirkland
- Carryl Thomas
- Mark Read (singer)
- Jessica Henwick
- Cascade Brown
Teaching Faculty
Most of the faculty are previous students. Current teachers include:
- Matthew Chandler, founder and principal
- Ryan Mcauley, artistic manager
- Linda Rees, office manager
- Nina French, director and choreographer
- Philip Shute, musical director
- Doug Quinn, director
- Matt Reed, director and choreographer
- Rachel Picar, director and choreographer
- Lauren Godbold, choreographer
- Jaye Elster, choreographer
- Charlotte Ribey, choreographer