Our ethos

At Act One Beginners  we run well planned and structured classes through which the children are encouraged to discover and develop their own talents and self-confidence in a fun and exciting way.  In addition, the Advanced and Graduates classes complement GCSE and A Level drama studies, introducing students to the theory as well as the practice of drama, along with a variety of production and playwriting skills. 

In Act One Beginners classes we work hard to get to know each child as an individual.  Whether a child simply wishes to increase his/her confidence and communication skills, or is keen to act in large scale productions and compete in drama festivals, our excellent teaching and range of opportunities ensure that our students achieve far more than they ever thought possible.

The information on the following pages should provide a taste of who we are and what we do.  However the best way to really get to know us is to try us out by attending one of our classes.  Whatever you choose, I hope that reading these pages will inspire and encourage you as much as the students of Act One Beginners  do me. 

Kristina Hewitt 

Where it all started…

Act One Beginners has been running for 20 years. The school was opened in April 2003 by Beverly Hewitt.

Beverly Hewitt - Founder

Beverly opened Act One Beginners  in 2003 following appeals from parents of children she had directed in a local amateur production of The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe to work with their children on a more regular basis.  Beverly used her own performance experience along with her love of teaching to enthuse and inform her students.  These qualities, along with expertise in textual analysis, creative writing and modern drama practice and theory gained from her First Class Honours Degree, combine to provide high quality drama tuition. 

As a member of the Society of Speech and Drama Teachers, Beverly was committed to the highest standards of teaching of Speech and Dramatic Art in every form.  However, what makes Act One Beginners special is that at the very heart of her ethos, Beverly tried her hardest to infuse her students with her own love of theatre and her enthusiasm for everything that Drama has to offer, which is something she has passed onto her daughter.  Beverly lives on in the spirit of all those she taught.