Epsom’s Laine Academy opens new studios
Young performers in Epsom have a new place to dance, sing and take to the stage following the opening of Laine Academy’s studios at Parkside House.
The academy, which offers part-time performing arts classes for children and young people aged three to 18, has moved into specially designed studios opposite Rosebery Park.
Its expanded programme includes dance, musical theatre, acting and singing, with classes for different ages and levels of experience.
The academy says the new premises provide dedicated spaces for students to learn, rehearse and perform. Alongside weekly classes, pupils have opportunities to gain performance experience and work with industry professionals.
The programme is aimed both at children taking their first steps in the performing arts and at those who may hope to pursue a professional career.
A long Epsom theatre tradition
Laine Academy is the part-time training programme connected to Laine Theatre Arts, the Epsom performing arts college. The college continues to use the Laine Theatre Arts name and also offers full-time professional training.
The college was founded by former dancer and teacher Betty Laine OBE, who directed its training for more than 50 years. Laine Theatre Arts traces its origins to 1962, while its performing arts college in Epsom was established in 1974.
Over the decades, Laine has trained performers, teachers, choreographers and directors who have gone on to work across the entertainment industry. Its former students include West End performers Ruthie Henshall, Kerry Ellis, Louise Dearman and Charlie Stemp.
Betty Laine retired in 2023, and the college says it began a further chapter in 2025 as a regulated provider of higher education. Its full-time courses include degree, diploma and certificate-level musical theatre training.
Laine Academy is directed by Nicki Danika-Pain, a former Laine student who went on to work as a professional dancer and choreographer before returning to teach.
Joining the academy
Laine Academy is welcoming enquiries about its classes at Parkside House. Families can find more information on the Laine Academy website or email laineacademy@lainetheatrearts.ac.uk.