Performing Arts

Find your confidence on stage

Whether taking centre stage in a major musical, performing in a dramatic production, or expressing creativity through dance, our Performing Arts programme gives every pupil the opportunity to discover their talents and grow in confidence.

From Year 7 onwards, pupils can become involved in productions, dance performances and specialist workshops, developing creativity, teamwork and communication skills that will benefit them for life. With professional-standard facilities and expert tuition, there is something for performers of every experience level.

Drama Productions

Drama is one of the most vibrant parts of life at St George's. Throughout the year, pupils have the opportunity to perform in a variety of productions, from Year 7 performances to senior plays and our highly anticipated whole-school musical.

Recent productions have included Oliver!, Beauty and the Beast, Grease, Sister Act and The Sound of Music, involving pupils both on stage and behind the scenes. Those interested in technical theatre can also gain experience in lighting, sound, stage management, set construction, costumes and hair and make-up.

Our productions encourage collaboration, creativity and confidence, while creating unforgettable memories for everyone involved.

Dance

Working in partnership with the Natalie Vinson School of Dance, pupils can enjoy an extensive programme of dance classes suitable for all abilities.

Dance classes on offer

Classical Ballet

Pupils follow the RAD syllabus (Royal Academy of Dance) and have the opportunity to take Graded and Vocational examinations. Lessons can also be taken as a recreational activity (group and individual lessons). Our students have been extremely successful in their RAD Ballet examinations with 100% gaining a Distinction or Merit. Higher grades (from Grade 6) are awarded UCAS points.

Pointework and Conditioning

This class is for pupils in Grade 4 Ballet and above. Pupils will improve their strength and flexibility through stretching and Pilates based exercises. Additionally pupils will study pointework or pointework preparation.

Pilates

Pilates is a popular form of exercise which focuses on the core postural muscles. These help to keep the body balanced and are essential for providing support for the spine. Pilates improves flexibility and teaches awareness of breath control. It requires focus and concentration.

Zumba

Zumba is a very popular aerobics / dance style combining Latin and International music with a fun and effective workout programme.

Tap Dance

Tap has its roots in Harlem, USA and involves the use of the ankles and feet, incorporating different beats and rhythms to music. Not only is tap a very popular form of dance but it's good fun too!

Acro

Acro is a form of movement which combines dance with gymnastics. While all dance is physical, Acro is particularly athletic and has unique choreography due to its use of acrobatics in a dance environment. It seamlessly fuses elements of lyrical gymnastics, tricks, balancing, tumbling, ballet and jazz dance.

Dance GCSE

This class is run by the Natalie Vinson School of Dance and Drama off-site in Ascot and can be taken as an extra GCSE in the pupils’ own time.

Natalie Vinson’s GCSE Dance results have been extremely impressive with her pupils achieving 100% pass rates since the course started in 2003 with 95% (100 students) gaining and A*, A or B Grades.

Performance Opportunities

Performing Arts at St George's is about much more than lessons.

Throughout the year pupils can:

Perform in our spectacular annual Dance & Jazz Show
Audition for the whole-school musical
Take part in senior drama productions
Perform in Year group productions
Work with visiting theatre practitioners
Attend West End theatre trips
Explore technical theatre and backstage production
Take Speech & Drama lessons and examinations

Every performance helps pupils develop resilience, communication skills and self-belief while becoming part of a supportive creative community.

Find Out More About Music at St George's

Professional Facilities

Pupils rehearse and perform in exceptional facilities including:

Sue Cormack Hall, our professional theatre
Dedicated Drama Studio
Purpose-built Dance Studio with sprung floor, mirrors and barres
Professional lighting and sound equipment
Backstage workshop and costume facilities

These spaces allow pupils to rehearse and perform in an environment that reflects professional theatre standards.

Find Out More About our Location and Facilities

St George's Ascot Sue Cormack Hall Theater

Why Performing Arts?

Performing Arts helps pupils become:

Confident communicators
Creative thinkers
Collaborative team members
Resilient performers
Compassionate leaders

Whether a pupil dreams of a career on stage or simply wants to build confidence and try something new, Performing Arts at St George's provides opportunities to shine.