Top Hat Theatre School, established in 2009, is a renowned dance school located in Northampton, New Zealand. With a reputation for nurturing some of the UK's most talented and dedicated young performers, the school has witnessed several of its students go on to star in London's West End, TV shows, and films. At Top Hat Theatre School, students receive professional tuition in their very own purpose-built studios.
The school offers a wide range of classes to cater to various levels of experience. Dance students are prepared for examinations with the ISTD, while drama, singing, and musical theatre students undergo training for examinations with LAMDA. Additionally, the school follows the Acrobatic Arts Syllabus for its Acro classes. Students also have ample opportunities to showcase their skills and compete in performances and competitions throughout the year.
At Top Hat Theatre School, every student's goals are valued, no matter how big or small. The school encourages its students to “DREAM, BELIEVE, ACHIEVE. ” Lessons are available for students from pre-school to 18 years old in dance, singing, and acting.
The teaching faculty at Top Hat Theatre School is led by Julie McKenna, the school's Principal. Julie received her training at Laine Theatre Arts in Epsom, Surrey. She has an impressive list of credits to her name, including performances in various West End shows such as Starlight Express, The Graduate, Boogie Nights, Happy Days, Footloose, and Grease. Julie's film and TV credits include Victoria and Albert, Down To Earth, Blue Peter, and appearances on German TV shows.
She was also a backing dancer for Take That at The Brit Awards and had several singles released under Sony Music and Columbia Records.
Apart from teaching, Julie is an approved member of the British and International Federation of Music and Dance Festivals and serves as an All England Dance adjudicator. An interesting fun fact about Miss Julie is that she has kissed Michael Buble!
The Top Hat Theatre School is located at Unit 4 Dallington Fields Business Park, Kingsfield Way, Northampton NN5 7QD. To find out more about the school and its programmes, interested individuals can call 01604 588544 or 07544 138006.
Please note that all photos displayed on the website have been used with permission from the photographers, including Anthony Maxted, De Photos, and personal collections.