Frequency Asked Questions

Who can join ACT?

We have 3 classes at ACT:

  • ACT Kids - for any child aged 4-7 years
  • ACT Juniors - for any child aged 8-11 years
  • ACT Seniors - for any child aged 12-18 years 
How much does ACT cost?

Fees are based on £6 an hour and are payable by the third week of each half term via cash or bank transfer.​
There is a 20% sibling discount for families with two or more children at the school. (Excludes Summer School)
*There is a £2 admin fee for cash and cheque payments.

When are fees due?

Tuition fees are collected on a half-termly basis and must be paid in full by the third week of the half term.
Regrettably any students with outstanding term/show fees are not allowed to take part in performances and tuition may be withheld.

Are there any extra costs?

There is a show fee (which is extra to half-term fees) in order for students to take part in our Christmas and Summer stage productions. This fee is to help us cover some of the extra costs that we incur as a company when putting on a show, such as: performance rights, venue hire, costumes, props, set, etc.

What are the rules at ACT?

Be respectful and supportive of each other.
Be respectful of the rehearsal and performance venues.
Bad behaviour, violence and bad language will not be tolerated at ACT.
Should this occur you will be asked to leave.

Are you DBS checked?

Pauley, Jen, Mike, and Lynn are DBS checked.
All staff members that work alone with students will not be allowed to do so unless they are DBS checked.

Where can I view the child protection document?

Here is our Child Protection Document ...

What should my child wear for class?

In rehearsal students should wear their ACT T-shirt and a pair of comfortable trousers that they can move around in easily, such as leggings or jogging bottoms.

Black jazz or ballet shoes are ideal for dance and drama.

Our ACT T-shirts are £8 and Hoodies are £20. These are required for showcases, presentations and concerts.

Can we still join your classes after the term has started?

The best times to join ACT are in September and in January as this is often when we begin working on new projects. However, new students are welcome throughout the year with the exception of April, May and June when we are in rehearsal for our annual production.

When and where do you rehearse?

Classes in Carlisle take place on a Saturday morning at Currock House Community Centre: 9am-1pm.
Classes in Penrith take place on a Wednesday evening at Penrith Rugby Club: 4-8pm. 

When we are working towards our annual production extra/extended rehearsals may take place. You will be informed of these dates and times in advance. 

What if I miss a class?

A level of commitment is expected of all ACT students and we expect regular attendance at class.

Payment must be made for the full half term regardless of any missed classes.

If you are unable to attend a class, for whatever reason, please let us know.

Unauthorised absences and lateness shall be noted and are taken into account when casting our annual production.

If a student with a principle role misses three rehearsals without having informed us in advance, they will have the role withdrawn from them (excluding illness, in which case we must be informed on the day).  

For health and safety reasons any student that is unable to attend a dress rehearsal cannot perform in that venue.