Primary Times - the definitive what’s on and where to go family guide of activities and events for children of primary school age. Things to do with your kids during the school holidays including arts and craft activities, music and theatre for children, parties, competitions, days out, and family attractions along with term time drama schools, dance classes, after school clubs and sports activities. Things to do at a place near you!
Performing Arts in Edinburgh
Shakespeare’s famous poem ‘All the World’s a Stage’ highlights the seven phases of life and at the 
first stage of life many youngsters take the route to acquiring confidence by treading the boards. Indeed, the performing arts will help children secure a solid foundation of skills that will help them on the wider stage of life…
- They will gain self-belief. All types of performing arts throw an emotional challenge to children in a cushioned sort of way. Performing in front of others, be it dancing, acting, or playing a musical instrument requires focus and a level of self-assurance. As children grow, they will learn the best way to overcome fear is to face it.
- They will learn how to persevere. The performance may be fun, but it isn’t always easy. When the going gets tough, children are challenged to learn ways of coping. By being in the company of so many positive people, such as teachers, coaches and peers, youngsters often learn the priceless ability to pick themselves up and keep going.
- They will have a chance to flourish. The extrovert child will have the chance to show off his or her exuberance, whilst a more introverted youngster will have the opportunity to open up under the pretence of playing a different character or by getting absorbed in the performance.
- They will be taught the value of teamwork and empathy. As most performing arts disciplines involve working in a group, pupils are taught how to work as a valuable part of a team. They gain empathy by learning how to see life from another performer’s or character’s viewpoint.
- They will have fun. Many children want to get involved in a performing art because they find the workshops, classes and team-spirit fun and enlightening. Even if a future Oscar ceremony isn’t on the cards, children can gain enormous confidence and invaluable social skills from the performing arts which will help carry them through life.
To reap the rewards of the performing arts disciplines sign your child up to a class near you…
Catriona Hogg School of Dance
Tel: 07876 267633
The Catriona Hogg School of Dance is proud to provide quality teaching in small fun classes. Its enthusiastic and caring teachers are committed to promoting the enjoyment of dance through carefully planned classes which provide opportunities to strengthen technique, learn new skills and work with others. Its annual show is a fantastic opportunity to practice performance skills on stage in costume with professional lighting and sound.
The Drama Studio
Tel: 0131 453 3284
www.thedramastudio.com
The Drama Studio teaches drama and dance in schools and independent Edinburgh venues to students aged 4-17 years. The school’s approach appeals to creative and imaginative young people who have the opportunity to develop their own ideas into plays to perform, enhancing self-confidence and having great fun with friends.
In addition to theatre shows, the senior students participate in filming projects celebrated in a red carpet Oscars- style event every year at a state of the art venue.
Edinburgh Acting School
Tel: 0131 346 2432
www.edinburghactingschool.com
Edinburgh Acting School (EAS), established for over 30 years, offers quality classes in speech and drama to those with a passion for acting. All tutors are experienced, friendly and work within the industry themselves. Students are given a solid foundation in the performing arts and often go on to full-time training having developed confidence and gained experience. Classes are available for children and adults as well as individual lessons in voice work, presentation skills, audition work and more. Exams are offered for those interested and EAS has a 100% pass rate!
The MGA Academy
Tel: 0131 466 9392
www.themgaacademy.com
As one of the few CDET-recognised schools in Scotland, the MGA's Junior School offers a fantastic range of exciting classes and training for school aged children and young people alongside diverse performance opportunities. Its three-stage training set-up ensures progression and development for students aged from 4 to 18 and allows them to learn in a professional, fun and secure environment. Classes in singing, acting and dance are led by experienced tutors and are supported by visiting industry professionals.
St Mary’s Music School
Tel: 0131 538 7766
www.st-marys-music-school.co.uk/outreach
Over 150 local children aged 4 to 13 benefit from the expertise of St Mary’s Music School’s staff, helped by senior pupils, on Saturdays during term time at Coates Hall, 25 Grosvenor Crescent, in Edinburgh's west end. Classes include Instrumental lessons, Singing, Recorder, Theory, Kodaly and Dalcroze Eurhythmics. Call for details of current vacancies.
Stringbabies
Tel: Sheena on 07722 831224
Email: sheena.m.ferguson@gmail.com
Sheena Ferguson runs Stringbabies in Edinburgh to provide young children with the opportunity to learn to play the violin, overcome the sight reading barrier and acquire the very best techniques right from the start. Children will also develop singing, rhythmic, composition and aural skills and really enjoy themselves in the process. Sheena also teaches older children and adults and is available during the day, after school and Saturday mornings