London Arts And Performance

It is no surprise that London’s West End is one of the most successful theatre and performing arts destinations in the world. Although “real” actors may quibble with the abundance of flashy musicals and jazz hands, London houses an astonishing array of talent. There are plenty of programs for those looking to hone their craft or to become a star. Many of London’s elite art, music, drama, and dance academies supplement their income by offering part-time and summer courses to motivated amateurs. Typically there are no admissions requirements (though some courses fill up quickly), but you will rarely receive any recognition other than a certificate of attendance for the work you put in. Always check whether you’ll be taught by the same master artists who teach the colleges’ regular offerings.

Central St. Martins College of Art and Design, Southampton Row, London WC1B 4AP (☎7514 7015; www.csm.linst.ac.uk). Dozens of evening courses throughout the year, as well as a comprehensive summer program covering all aspects of fine art, graphic design, fashion, and film.
Courtauld Institute, Somerset House, Strand, London WC2R 0RN (☎7848 2777; www.courtauld.ac.uk). 12-week summer courses in art history. Courses include gallery visits, focusing on the Courtauld’s own impressive collections. Also offers undergraduate degree program in Art History and a year-long Master’s program in Art History and Art Restoration. Tuition for summer courses starts at £400.
Laban Centre for Contemporary Dance, Creekside, London SE8 3DZ (☎8691 8600; www.laban.org). Dance classes from ballet to contemporary dance to jazz offered for all ages and levels. £475 for a 2-week summer intensive course.
Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA), 62-64 Gower St., London WC1E 6ED; 18-22 Chenies St., London WC1E 7EX (for both ☎7636 7076; www.rada.org). The alma mater of Ralph Fiennes, Kenneth Branagh, and Anthony Hopkins offers 4- and 8-week summer courses in acting, technical production, and script writing. Applicants must be at least 18; no experience required. Around £2500 per 4 weeks. See website for course offerings and to download application.
Royal Opera House (Royal Opera and Royal Ballet), ROH Education, Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9DD (☎7212 9410; www.royalopera.org). Classes in performance art for all ages. Classes from £120-170.
Slade School of Fine Art, part of University College London, Gower St., London WC1E 6BT (☎7679 7772; www.ucl.ac.uk/slade). A range of general and specialized art courses over the summer, between £290 and £2700 for 1-10 weeks.