At Makers' House Hastings, we have quickly established ourself as a home away from home for some of the UK's most exciting creative artists.
We're now opening our doors to aspiring and experienced actors alike, with weekly evening Professional ActingTraining for adults of all experience levels.
Whether you're taking your first steps onto the stage, returning to acting, or looking to develop your professional skills; you can build confidence, creativity, and performance technique by joining our supportive, inspiring, professionally led community.
Join us for a single term or continue through our six-term training programme at your own pace.
Students who complete all six terms can qualify for Spotlight membership* - the industry's leading casting directory and an important gateway to professional acting opportunities.
*Contrary to what many acting schools advertise, Spotlight membership can never be guaranteed. Spotlight's internal membership process does not accredit or pre-approve any training venue or course. Each application is judged individually and, when a student completes 6 terms, Makers’ House will do all it can to support a student’s application.
If you’re curious about our Professional Acting Training, our Taster Evening on Wednesday 11th November is a perfect opportunity to learn more about the course.
What do our Students say?
‘Speaking as a professional actress, I can’t speak highly enough of the brilliant direction and thought provoking experiences I’ve had with Chris.
His knowledge of every aspect of the theatre, acting, voice production, directing, writing, lighting, sound, design, wardrobe, etc. is astounding.
If you have an open mind, and are willing to learn, you can do no better anywhere.’
‘I have attended many acting sessions and courses at Makers House Hastings and I have found every one of them, interesting, challenging, creative and inspiring.
Chris not only teaches with great insight, knowledge and talent but allows each individual to explore and express their own interpretation and passion.
I have benefitted enormously. Also laughter is encouraged.’
- Karen Mann- Vicky O. ‘Like nothing I have been to before. Not only a look at the craft of acting but a journey into self discovery and understanding.
From day one I was treated like a professional and expected to behave like a professional.
The work is challenging, thought provoking and, most importantly, entirely rewarding.’
- Leylan H.Who is the training for?
Our training is open to adults and young performers above School Leaving Age.
No previous acting experience is required, and there are no auditions to join.
The training is suitable for:
Complete beginners who want to discover acting in a supportive environment
Adults returning to acting after time away from performance
Amateur performers looking to develop their craft
Performers wanting to build confidence, creativity and stage presence
Gap Year Students who wish to develop their skills with a view to joining the industry
Anyone who simply loves drama and wants to explore the joy of performance
Everyone is welcome. Our aim is to help each actor develop their own voice, unlock their creativity and grow in confidence, whatever their starting point.
What you'll Learn
Our training is designed to develop the complete actor — building technique, confidence, imagination and the ability to create truthful, compelling performances.
Whether your goal is professional training, personal development or simply the joy of acting, each class is designed to help you become a more confident, skilled and expressive performer.
Throughout the 6 terms, you will explore:
Scene Study – understanding text, exploring characters, relationships and objectives through practical scene work
Character Development – discovering how to create rich, believable and individual characters
Improvisation – developing spontaneity, imagination and the ability to respond in the moment
Voice and Speech – strengthening vocal technique, clarity, projection and expression
Movement – using the body with confidence, freedom and awareness
Classical Verse – exploring the language, rhythm and technique required to bring classical texts to life
Emotional Truth – finding honesty, connection and authenticity in your work
Camera Technique – learning the skills needed to perform naturally and effectively for screen
Listening and Reacting – developing the essential skills that make performances feel alive and truthful
Ensemble Work – collaborating creatively and building the trust required for great acting
Confidence in Performance – developing the courage, presence and freedom to perform at your best
Course Structure
Weekly Classes - Currently available on either a Monday or Wednesday evening
2.5 hours per week - 25 hours per term
Our acting programme is designed as a flexible series of six progressive terms, with three terms each year.
There is no obligation to complete all six terms. Many students choose to join us for a single term to develop their confidence, explore acting or simply enjoy the experience. Others continue through multiple terms, steadily building their skills and technique.
Each term offers a complete and rewarding learning experience in its own right, while also forming part of a carefully structured programme for those who wish to continue their training, and each term is punctuated with public performances where you can share your work.
For those who wish to attain qualifications, from the second year onwards, students who would like to gain formal qualifications have the opportunity to work towards Trinity College London Acting examinations, progressing as far as Grade 8.
For Gap Year Students, or for those who wish to take their training further, there may be an option of expanding your training with us in order to study for a Trinity College London Diploma. The ATCL diploma is a globally recognised Level 4 qualification, equivalent to the first-year recital of an undergraduate degree or a UK Certificate of Higher Education.
Whether you join us for one term or complete the full programme, you'll receive the same high-quality training in a supportive, creative environment.
‘Working with Chris has unlocked a bravery that I didn’t know I had to tackle characters.
To have someone believe fiercely in your ability and give permission to commit yourself fully to the text has changed my whole psychology when developing a role.’
- Jemima BowlerCourse Dates
Each term consists of:
10 weekly evening classes
2.5 hours of training per week
25 hours of professional actor training per term
A maximum class size of 8 students
With small class sizes, every actor receives individual attention, practical feedback and the opportunity to fully engage in every session.
Students can join for a single term or continue through our full six-term programme.
How much does it cost?
Each term costs £495. It can be paid in one lump sum, or by installments.
Your term fee includes:
10 weekly evening classes
25 hours of professional actor training per term
Personal Training with Makers' House founders Liz Mattey and Chris New
Access to a vibrant creative community
Opportunities to attend selected masterclasses, workshops and talks with visiting artists
Students can join for a single term or choose to continue through the full six-term programme, developing their skills progressively over time.
Paying in instalments — If you would like to spread the cost of a term, we now offer an instalment system. Just pay a 30% deposit at checkout, and you can pay the remaining balance in two monthly payments. Just tick the “Pay deposit” box at checkout.
‘I had not done any acting for over 30 years. Upon retirement, I made a tentative step to return to something I loved to do when I was young. What I found was a magical chest of jewels that helped me regain my confidence and an incredible achievement.
This would not have been possible without the incredibly professional coaching and direction from Liz and Chris.
I came as a mouse and left as a lion!’
- Renee GriffithOur Classes are
Our classes are designed to create the ideal environment for actors to explore, experiment and grow. We combine professional standards with a warm, encouraging atmosphere where everyone feels able to take creative risks.
You can expect classes that are:
Encouraging – helping you discover your strengths and develop confidence
Supportive – creating a safe space where you can explore and learn
Challenging – pushing you to develop your technique and reach your potential
Fun – because the best acting comes from curiosity, play and enjoyment
Creative – inspiring imagination, originality and personal expression
Inclusive – welcoming actors of all backgrounds, abilities and experience levels
Professional without being intimidating – offering high-quality actor training in a relaxed and approachable environment
Our classes are intentionally kept small, with a maximum of 8 students per group, allowing every actor the space, attention and confidence to develop their skills.
At Makers' House, we believe actors do their best work when they feel both challenged and supported — encouraged to take risks, make discoveries and find their own unique voice.
Why train with us?
Makers' House has earned an outstanding reputation within the creative industries, attracting some of the UK's most respected artists, performers and makers. Training with us means becoming part of a vibrant creative community whose name is increasingly recognised for artistic excellence. Alongside your weekly classes, you'll have opportunities to attend exclusive masterclasses, workshops and talks with many of the exceptional artists who visit Makers' House.
The course is led by Makers’ House founders Liz Mattey and Chris New.
Chris trained at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and has performed leading roles on many of the UK’s foremost stages, and brings the highest standard of training and experience to his teaching.
Liz has spent more than twenty years training actors within the education system, many of whom are now among the bright new talents of the stage and screen.
Makers’ House Hastings recent production of TOP GIRLS at the Stables Theatre, and starred many of the actors we have trained.
Together, they have developed a teaching philosophy that combines professional rigour with encouragement, curiosity and play, helping every actor discover their own authentic voice, develop exceptional technique, and find genuine freedom and joy in performance.
Places are strictly limited. Dates for our January 2027 intake will be announce very soon. If you have any questions, or would like to discuss whether the course is for you, then email here
‘I learned and developed more as an actor than I had during my time at university studying drama many years ago.
Chris has excellent knowledge and expertise and is highly skilled at understanding where each individual is in their development and knowing how to bring out more from them and work together to create compelling theatre .
This, alongside Liz’s experience and encouragement, as well as the general warmth of Makers House, made it a very fulfilling experience.’
- Kelly Williams