Young people and adults alike are being encouraged to experience life behind the scenes of Gala’s dance and theatre productions with new classes and workshops.

Starting in January, the classes and workshops give an exclusive insight into the work and preparation that goes into producing dance and theatre for the stage, and passes on valuable skills to those wishing to pursue a life of music, theatre and entertainment.

Experimental theatre classes will help 12-16 year olds explore a world of absurdity, creativity and unparalleled opportunity with 12 weeks of classes.

These classes will take young people beyond the world of traditional theatre practitioners and introduce them to people who see both the real world and the world of theatre in entirely different ways.

From Grotowski to Mayerhold, Beckett to Pinter; these classes are ideal for those wishing to explore theatrical styles which push boundaries and ask questions.

Classes started on Monday 22 January, 6pm – 7.30pm, and costs £65 for 12 weeks.

Adults who are curious about how actors train and prepare for life on stage are invited to adult theatre workshops.

These classes will give older students an opportunity to explore actor training in a mature and friendly environment.

They’ll look at how to build an authentic character and receive training in relation to voice and the use of the body, as well as study, rehearse, and perform published plays from some of the greatest writers of all time.

Classes started Monday 22 January, 7.30pm – 9pm, and cost £65 for 12 weeks.

Those who love to move to the beat are also being catered for at Gala, with dance classes in both technical jazz and street music warming up those cold winter nights.

Classes will run on Thursdays, with technical jazz running from 5.45pm till 7.15pm, with commercial/street classes starting immediately after at 7.15pm and lasting until 8.15pm.

The Gala Theatre also offers activities for schools, community groups, artist development, bespoke workshops, outreach projects, theatre tours, work experience, production workshops, pre and post show Q&As. For further information on all their classes visit www.galadurham.co.uk/about-engage