Susan Roberts Academy (SRA) is a part-time performing arts school operating in venues across Weybridge, Cobham and, more recently, Addlestone. The Academy, often described as “Surrey’s best kept secret,” opened in 1996, founded by Susan Roberts – ex-professional actress now independent film producer – who still manages the company today.
SRA offers a wide variety of classes for all age groups (2-18+ years), from classical ballet to singing lessons, through to musical theatre, hip hop and tap dance classes; there’s something for every student to enjoy. The academy prides itself on its inclusivity policy, and in its 26 years of operation, Susan Roberts claims she has ‘never turned a child away,’ irrespective of finances, disability, or travel complications.
Susan Roberts says, “We started as a school of just 47 students and, two and a half decades later, SRA is now recognised as one of the leading part-time performing arts schools in the country.”
“Never has it been more important for our children to have confidence in themselves and be a part of an inclusive community. Not only does our high-standard training equip students with performing experience, but they also gain invaluable communication skills and a sense of self-worth.”
The academy boasts an impressive alumnus. Former students have gone on to achieve leading roles in West End musicals such as Dream Girls, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia, Mary Poppins and Follies. Some are making their mark on the music industry – notably, alumna, Lauren Rammell, local girl from Hersham, who rose to fame in 2016 with her band Four of Diamonds after getting to the semi-finals of The X Factor. While others have gone onto corporate careers in marketing, public relations, law, tech, and journalism.
Hanna Ward, 25, from Chertsey, former SRA student, now works as Assistant Producer on BBC’s prestigious radio show, Woman’s Hour. She attributes much of her success to the training she received at the academy. She says, “I spent the most incredible 14 years at SRA from the age of 4-18. All the classes I did there have helped me in my career path to becoming a journalist.”
“My confidence blossomed through my teenage years as I attended dance lessons, including ballet, tap, jazz and modern. LAMDA lessons developed my speaking voice and public speaking skills.”
“My ability to speak articulately when recording voice overs and doing 1-minute explainer stories in BBC’s studios was significantly improved by my acting and LAMDA training. SRA taught me life lessons that I would never have got from school drama classes and, more than anything, it always felt like one big family of supportive teachers and students.”
Watch the astonishing talent that is SRA’s students for yourself on 13th November 2022 and enjoy SRA’s whole school show ‘This Is Us’ at the Addlestone Community Centre. Matinee showing starts at 1pm; the evening performance at 6.30pm.
Susan comments, “This Is Us is going to be an uplifting evening of celebration and joy. SRA’s community, creativity, and outstanding skill will be at the forefront of this show – you won’t want to miss it!”
All ticket proceeds go to Susan Roberts Foundation for Youth charity.
If you’re interested in enrolling your child and/or purchasing tickets for This Is Us, get in touch on 07766761267 or email [email protected] for more information.
