News

Masquerades Youth Theatre Group announces two brand-new January 2027 productions, PRETTY UGLY and BUZZ WORLD, at the University of Bedfordshire Theatre.

If your child is in a drama class, or you're looking for one, there's a good chance you've come across the term LAMDA. Maybe their teacher mentioned it, maybe you spotted it on a performing arts school website, or maybe another parent brought it up and you smiled and nodded while quietly wondering what on earth it actually meant. This article sets out to fix that - covering what LAMDA is, how the exams work, what children gain from taking them, and honestly, whether they're t

This August, Masquerades is bringing back something truly special, a full summer week intensive, and this year we are doing Grease In A Week! Taking place from Monday 17th to Friday 21st August, this five day performing arts experience is open to all young people aged 5 to 18 years across Bedfordshire. Four days will be spent at Cople Village Hall near Bedford, before the whole group comes together for a spectacular performance day at Stratton Upper School in Biggleswade on t

Ask any parent whose child has been through a youth theatre group and they'll tell you the same thing: something changes. A child who was reluctant to speak in class starts putting their hand up. A child who clung to their parent on the first day eventually walks onto a stage in front of 200 people and loves every second of it. This isn't just anecdotal. A growing body of research confirms what performing arts teachers have known for decades, that youth theatre is one of the

There is a quiet crisis happening in children's performing arts across the UK, and most people outside the industry don't realise it's there. Drama schools, dance academies and musical theatre groups have, over the past decade, become increasingly expensive - to the point where many talented, passionate young people simply can't get through the door. We think that's wrong. And at Masquerades Youth Theatre Group, we've spent over 20 years doing something about it. The cost of

The answer to what age children should start dance and drama classes isn't a single number, it depends on the type of class, and where your child is developmentally. What research does tell us is that children are wired for movement, rhythm and imaginative play from very early on, and that the performing arts can support their development at every stage, if the class is matched to where they actually are. Here's a guide to what children are ready for at each age group, and wh

Masquerades Seniors return this January with Madhouse — a lively, laugh-out-loud musical comedy inspired by the hit musical Our House: A Madness Musical . Packed with feel good tunes, humour, and a story full of twists and heart, Madhouse brings the chaos of family, love, and choices to the stage in true Masquerades style. 🎭 Performance Dates: Friday 23rd January & Saturday 24th 2026 🎟 Tickets: This event has now passed.

Masquerades are back with another brand new Inters, Juniors & Minis January production — St Tilly Rocks ! Inspired by the spirit of Matilda , the energy of School of Rock , and the mischief of St Trinian’s , this is a rebellious, heart-filled musical comedy with a punky twist. 🎭 Performance Dates: Saturday 24th January 2026 🎟 Tickets: This event has now passed.

And just like that… our 2025 Summer Sessions have come to a close! We’ve had an incredible summer filled with energy, creativity,...

We are absolutely thrilled to announce our performance dates and venues for 2026! Plus some more exciting info... After much searching and planning, we’re delighted to confirm that Masquerades will be performing in two exciting new venues next year – bringing our shows to larger theatres that will offer our students an even more magical experience on stage. Here’s what’s coming up: 🎭 JANUARY SHOWS: Madhouse & St Tilly Rocks Venue: Stantonbury Theatre, Milton Keynes Dates: Fr

Masquerades is expanding its timetable with a fresh selection of classes for both young performers and adults — offering even more...

Our Masquerades Summer Holiday Workshops are now open for booking! Join us throughout August for days of sunshine-filled fun with dance,...

Introducing the new Masquerades website, featuring all of our information. From parties to performances, this website has everything we...