The Performing Arts form a core part of the education and experience at Abbeyfield School.  With a key focus on ‘Creativity’ the Performing Arts really allows students to develop their creativity both practically and theoretically through the disciplines of Dance, Drama and Music.   With state of the art facilities including a professional theatre, 4 studio spaces and a technical theatre team – students really are able to develop their understanding, experiences and passion for the Performing Arts. In December 2021 Abbeyfield school was recognised for their contribution to the Arts and was awarded Arts Mark Gold.

At Key Stage 3, students receive five hours of Performing Arts lessons a fortnight and across the faculty deliver a diverse range of subjects, offering students insight into art and its uses in a variety of cultures and historical periods. The topics connect across the disciplines to enable students to consolidate their knowledge and skills. Topics include Reggae, Bollywood, Axis of Awesome, Horror, Ancient Greek Theatre & Garageband.   The Performing Arts give students the confidence to express themselves in ways in which language does not allow. The subjects encourage students to think creatively, requiring them to build new skills both individually and in groups.

Both GCSE and BTEC are available in each of the art disciplines in which students continue to receive five hours a fortnight in their chosen discipline as well as develop their appreciation for Design aspects of theatre and develop in the roles of Directors and Choreographers.  

In addition, there are many extra-curricular opportunities ranging from our Theatre Tech Crew, Dance companies, Drama Clubs and our Musical Theatre company.  We have produced many fantastic performances and these can be seen by visiting the ‘Past Performances’ section of the website.  Similarly we offer many exciting opportunities off site including regular trips to the Royal and Derngate, our London Residential Trip and a visit to the Dance Festival: Move It.  In addition visiting practitioners to the school have included Frantic Assembly, Gecko Theatre Company and Zoo Nation allowing students to participate with working professionals and apply contemporary practice to their work.