Hope Mill Theatre School

As an organisation we are passionate about the future of the arts and culture sector, and how we can engage with young people to provide opportunities and a platform within our industry.

Launched in June 2021, Hope Mill Theatre School provides young people aged 2-18 with access to affordable Drama training in Singing, Dancing and Acting in the heart of the North West.

With a strong emphasis on fun, the training will not only develop your child’s performance ability but improve key life skill areas such as self-confidence and teamwork. Working with top industry professionals in all areas of the arts, the students will gain a superior education and training. From weekly classes to performance opportunities, Hope Mill Theatre School aims to encourage and elevate musical theatre talent whilst focusing on enjoyment and participation.

Each child’s journey of musical theatre training will be personal and unique:

We aim to provide a level of training which will enable those who are interested to pursue further formal training and careers both on and off the stage. There will be goals to achieve each term, performances and yearly reports, which will play a key part in each student’s individual journey and progression.

For those who simply enjoy taking part, Hope Mill Theatre School is a non-elitist, pressure free environment where young people can experience a multitude of benefits from their training

What HMTS do for the children is unmatched, the confidence, joy and happiness it’s given to my child is absolutely priceless! (HMTS Parent/Carer)

Our daughter has absolutely thrived at Hope Mill Theatre School. I would go as far to say that it is a real life line for her. She finds attending school a challenge sometimes, due to many factors, however she has never missed a day of Hope Mill in 3 years unless it was for a family engagement. She learns great transferable skills, her confidence and self worth is now really strong, (this is important for anyone but particularly teen girls). And above all every Saturday there is real joy and friendship in her life. (HMTS Parent/Carer)

My Son will enter his 5th year as a student at HMTS in September . The Schools staff and their provisions are integral to the ongoing development of confidence and skill for my Son through the years . He is provided with a variety of performing arts opportunities through HMTS. Spending regular time at Hope Mill Theatre with mentors and friends my Son tells me is one of the most enjoyable parts of his life. (HMTS Parent/Carer)

I have been at HMTS for a long time and it has helped me feel more confident each and every day. (HMTS Student)

It has massively improved my confidence (HMTS Student)

HMTS means the world to me. I’m able to express and be who I am and I enjoy coming every week. (HMTS Student)

Hope Mill Theatre School’s mission is to educate, inspire and encourage young talent, confidence and artistic passion.

Our vision is to create a safe nurturing creative space for young people to develop and train. An environment which is inclusive and where everyone feels valued and supported.

Hope Mill Theatre School is an extension of the vision and mission of Factory of Creativity CIO

All our staff are highly trained industry professionals. All staff are DBS checked. To read our child protection policy click here.

It has long been an ambition for us to establish a Theatre School for local children allowing them access to free/low fee theatre training. 50% of Hope Mill Youth Theatre’s places will be completely free of charge. Part-funded places are also available. Parents and caregivers can request a short questionnaire to declare income and affordability. This is to ensure that those who need it most are able to benefit from this financial support. Financial support is provided for an academic year, following which parents and carers are invited to apply again. Throughout the summer holidays, a week’s free training will be provided at our summer schools for those with funded places.

When you are sent your application pack you will be asked if you require a funding questionnaire.



Hope Mill Theatre School is kindly supported by Richer Sounds and the Albert Gubay Foundation.