Belfast School of Performing Arts has opened its 11th school — and this week it is Newtownards’ turn.
LoveBelfast is a proud media partner of BSPA.
BSPA says more than 1,000 young people are now attending its classes every week. That milestone lands alongside the new North Down base at Model Primary School, with Saturday sessions covering the main school and a Junior School for the youngest starters.
Dance, music and drama on Saturdays
The Newtownards teaching team is Corrie Earley (dance), Ayesha Akkari (music) and Áine McConvey (drama). Across the network, BSPA’s 11 schools take ages 3 to 18, with a separate Performance Academy for 16 to 24-year-olds who want to push further.
The ethos is blunt and useful: musical theatre as a way to grow confidence, creativity and friendships — whether someone is aiming for a stage career or just wants somewhere they belong on a Saturday.
“Not simply about numbers”
“Reaching our 11th school is an exciting milestone, but for us growth has never simply been about numbers,” said Artistic Director Peter Corry. “BSPA is about giving young people somewhere they can discover what they are capable of, build their confidence and feel part of something.
“Musical theatre is an incredibly powerful tool for young people. Whether they dream of a career on stage or simply want to make friends, have fun and find their voice, there is a place for them at BSPA. We’re delighted to now bring that opportunity to Newtownards.”
Managing Director Tina McVeigh added: “Reaching 1,000 young people coming through our doors every week is something we are incredibly proud of. At the heart of every BSPA school is the same ethos; to nurture confident, happy young people through the power of musical theatre.
“Newtownards has a fantastic community and we have assembled a brilliant teaching team in Corrie, Ayesha and Áine. This team is committed and excited to inspiring the next generation and all of them encapsulate what BSPA is all about.”
Why it matters locally
Eleven schools and a four-figure weekly roll put BSPA firmly in Northern Ireland’s youth arts story — the same organisation LoveBelfast has covered from arena anniversaries to festival wins. Newtownards now gets the Saturday pipeline: professional tuition, performance chances, and the camaraderie that keeps kids coming back.
Find out more or sign up: thebspa.co.uk
Discover more from LoveBelfast
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
