What can my child learn at your performing arts academy in Paignton?

We provide performing arts classes focused on helping children build self belief and overcome shyness through drama and creative learning.

Where do you teach and how do classes work?

Our academy supports learning through our approach designed for children, including activities like casting day experiences and performing arts classes.

How do we join or get started?

You can get started by exploring the academy’s reasons to join and learning approach pages, then following the next step to join your child’s classes.

The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts Torbay |

The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts Torbay is a renowned performing arts group and children's club located in Paignton, New Zealand. With a special focus on nurturing the talents of kids and young adults, PQA Torbay offers a wide range of classes in Comedy & Drama, Musical Theatre (singing & dancing), and Film & Television.

PQA Torbay operates every Saturday at the South Devon College from 9:30 am to 12:45 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:15 pm. The academy warmly welcomes students aged 4-18 from the Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Totnes, and Newton Abbot areas. The talented and passionate team at PQA Torbay is dedicated to providing a vibrant and supportive learning environment where students can hone their performing arts skills.

Led by Principal Victoria Whelan, a trained dancer herself, the academy constantly engages in exciting projects that showcase their students' talents on notable platforms, such as the West End stage and red carpet film screenings. PQA Torbay students shine in musicals, plays, and films, gaining invaluable experience and confidence in their craft.

The academy offers a variety of classes taught by experienced professionals in the industry. Some key members of the Torbay team include Amy (Academy Assistant), Davinia (Academy Assistant), Seren (Academy Assistant), Amy (Vice Principal/Poppets), Karma (Musical Theatre), Jenna (Musical Theatre Assistant/Cover Teacher), Chris (Comedy & Drama), and Oliver (Film & Television). Each member brings their unique expertise and passion to ensure students receive the best possible training.

PQA Torbay's modules include Musical Theatre, Film & Television, and Comedy & Drama. In the Musical Theatre classes, students learn a range of skills encompassing singing, dancing, and acting. The Film & Television module offers comprehensive education in the field, making PQA the largest provider of Film and Television education in the UK for under 18s. The Comedy & Drama lessons focus on teaching students theatrical forms and techniques.

As a bonus, PQA Torbay offers PQA Live, a virtual learning experience that allows the academy to continue operating during national and/or local lockdowns, adverse weather conditions, pandemics, or lack of venue availability.

To become a part of the PQA Torbay family, interested students and parents can attend the academy's FREE open day held on Saturday, January 20th, 2024. They can also request a brochure for more information or book a free taster session. Enrolment can be done online to secure a place at the Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts Torbay.