Originate Actor Training (17-23 YRS)
What is Originate?
Offered in collaboration with Theatre Peckham, Young & Talented, Guildhall School and RADA, Originate prepares young actors for Drama School and the industry via a free intensive eight-month programme. Originate allows young actors to build on their acting technique and confidence as a performer, create industry connections, establish a network of collaborators and introduces them to the rigour and joy of actor training.
Participants train in acting, voice, text, movement and audition technique, the course includes theatre visits, Q&As with actors, directors and practitioners, and access to practical resources such as headshots and showreels.
The course is based at Theatre Peckham with sessions led by Suzann McLean, sessions are also held at RADA and Guildhall School with professional guest tutors from each conservatoire.
The course culminates with a showcase at RADA performed for an audience of professional directors and agents, as well as friends and family.
The Originate partnership enables drama schools to open up access, giving young performers the chance to develop their techniques and learn more about the experience and possibilities of full-time drama training. The programme has been shortlisted for the 2024 NEON Award for Widening Access to Higher Education.
Originate is supported by AKTA Photography who provide pre/post-showcase headshots and showreels for all Originate participants.
What is Originate like?
“One skill I learned was giving more space for others to take up space. Being in a bigger cohort allowed me to take more time to just standby and allow others to shine or open up. I learned that sometimes hearing other peoples experiences or watching other people perform, allows me to grow as an actor as much as trying to involve myself in every single task and workshop.”
“Showcase day felt like we weren’t nervous, but we were bubbling with energy to get out there and show the world what we can do and so there was a bubbling feeding off ensemble, electricity between all of us.”
“Thank you! It’s genuinely been a perception altering experience.”
When do sessions take place?
On Thursday evenings during term time 6pm-9:15pm
How can I join?
Applications for are now closed. We audition all eligible applicants to the programme in person, and audition dates are published when applications open.
Am I eligible?
Due to competition for places, funding restrictions and reporting requirements all applicants have to be:
- Aged 17-23 at the start of the course. Any applicant who is 17 and currently in education must be in year 13/second year of college
- Live in a London borough
- Have attended a state school or college for the entirety of your education
- Have no previous experience of Higher Education
- Have a combined household income under £35,000
- Must be applying to drama school for entry
You must also be able to select at least one of these requirements below:
- Be in receipt of Free School Meals, in receipt of a 16-19 Bursary or living in a household which receives means tested benefits
- Have a home postcode which in Quintile 1 or 2 on the POLAR4 dataset or Deciles 1-4 on the IMD dataset (check POLAR4 postcode here, check IMD postcode here)
- Identify as Global Majority
- Have recent experience of the UK Care System, be a Care Leaver or be estranged from their parents
- Be a young carer or have significant caring responsibilities
- Have a declared disability
How can I support Originate?
Are you passionate about supporting young talent and empowering the next generation of creative leaders? We offer various ways for you to get involved, from volunteering opportunities to partnerships and sponsorships. Together, we can make a difference and create a more inclusive and vibrant creative industry. Email us youngpeckham@theatrepeckham.co.uk