ITW Drama Classes
Creative Drama Classes
We believe creative drama helps students build confidence, imagination, communication, and teamwork through fun, expressive activities. Our drama classes use improvisation, storytelling, theatre games, role‑play and creative thinking to help every student find their voice and enjoy performing. Whether acting out characters, creating scenes, or exploring emotions, students learn skills that support both life and performance.
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For our youngest performers, we offer playful Tots Creative Drama that encourages confidence and creativity through imaginative play and storytelling. In these age‑appropriate sessions, children enjoy drama games, costume play and acting out simple stories, all in a safe and nurturing environment that helps build early self‑expression and teamwork. The Tots drama class is 30 minutes and paired with Tots Dance and Tots Singing.
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In our Junior Creative Drama classes, we invite children to explore character, story and play in a lively, supportive setting. We use theatre games, role‑play and improvisation to help students develop confidence, expressive skills and communication as they create scenes and discover new ways to tell stories with their voices, bodies and imagination.
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Our Intermediate (Inters) Creative Drama gives pre‑teens space to grow both as actors and as individuals. Each week we play confidence‑building improvisation games and work together to create scenes based on themes and stimuli. Students are encouraged to share ideas, collaborate, and experiment with different characters and situations while enjoying a fun, supportive team environment.
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In Senior Creative Drama, we introduce more structured work that helps students deepen their performance skills. We explore characterisation, script work, audition technique, theatre games and thoughtful scene work, encouraging more complex emotional expression and creative problem‑solving. These classes help students develop confidence, imagination, vocabulary and a strong artistic voice.
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Our Young Adult Creative Drama classes build on the Senior level but are more intensive and tailored to individual goals. We focus on improvisation, storytelling, character development and movement, helping students refine their performance skills and explore acting for stage and screen. Classes also offer opportunities to devise original work, interpret complex texts, and prepare for auditions or further study in drama and theatre.
At The Independent Theatre Workshop, our drama classes are designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and develop strong performance skills in a fun and supportive environment. Through a dynamic mix of improvisation, storytelling, role play and theatre techniques, students of all ages are encouraged to express themselves, explore their imagination, and grow both on and off the stage. Whether your child is taking their first steps into drama or looking to refine their acting abilities, our classes provide a welcoming space to learn, create and thrive.
Class Levels at ITW:
Tots (Preschool - Senior Infants) → Junior (1st–3rd Class) → Inters (4th–6th Class) → Seniors (1st–3rd Year) → Young Adults (4th–6th Year)
Speech and Drama Classes
Build confidence, creativity and strong communication skills in our Speech, Drama & Communication classes at ITW.
Working in small classes tailored by age and ability, students explore everything from classical to modern drama while developing voice, character work, accents and performance skills. Poetry and prose are brought to life through active, engaging sessions that encourage students to perform with confidence and creativity.
Students work towards recognised exams with boards including the Leinster School of Music & Drama, LAMDA and Trinity Guildhall, alongside regular in-house performances throughout the year. We also offer classes in public speaking, communication and acting, supporting everything from school work to auditions and advanced performance training.
Want to find out more?
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Our Speech & Drama students perform in our informal, in-house performance nights at Christmas and in May giving parents and friends a chance to see them in action and building up their experience and confidence in performing in front of an audience.
These classes really help students in secondary school with their school CBA’s (Classroom Based Assessments) and English questions on Shakespeare and Poetry and Literature. Many of the grades include pieces from the Junior and Leaving Certificate set texts.
Our Speech & Drama students will cover 2 grades per year up to 6th class and will also get the opportunity to work on duologues and at senior level to also do their Solo Acting grades if they wish.
Exploring Styles, Periods, and Genres: The program offers a comprehensive exploration of different styles, periods, and genres of drama. From the ancient Greek tragedies to contemporary Irish works and everything in between, students gain a broad understanding of theatrical history. Through scene work, monologues, and ensemble exercises, students develop a deep appreciation for diverse dramatic forms, expanding their artistic horizons and enhancing their versatility as performers.
Mastering Accents, Dialects, and Character Development: Speech & Drama students at The Independent Theatre Workshop embark on a journey to master accents and dialects, acquiring the skills necessary to portray characters from various regions and backgrounds convincingly. Through rigorous training and practice, students develop a keen ear for linguistic nuances, refining their ability to deliver authentic performances. Furthermore, there is a strong emphasis on character development. Students learn how to analyse scripts, dissect characters, and effectively convey the inner lives of their roles. With guidance from experienced teachers they acquire the tools to breathe life into characters, cultivating a strong stage presence and a nuanced understanding of the dramatic craft.
Poetry with a Fresh Perspective: The Speech & Drama program offers students a unique perspective on poetry, allowing them to discover a genuine understanding and interest in different styles and forms. Students explore various poets and poetic techniques, delving into the beauty of rhythm, imagery, and wordplay. Through recitation and interpretation, they develop their own poetic voice, enhancing their expressive abilities and deepening their appreciation for the written word.
Exams and Advancement Opportunities: Students in the program have the opportunity to complete up to two exams per year, allowing them to gauge their progress and gain valuable experience. There are Speech & Drama Grade exams from Preliminary right through to Grade 10 which is the Certificate Grade. As they pass each level, students gain confidence and recognition for their accomplishments. The Leinster School of Music and Drama syllabus offers a clear progression path, with students able to work towards advanced qualifications such as the Associate Diploma. This opens doors for further artistic pursuits and even the possibility of becoming drama teachers themselves, sharing their passion and knowledge with future generations.
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For students with a passion for acting and aspirations of pursuing a career on the stage, the Solo Acting program offers an ideal platform to develop their skills and prepare for the performers Licentiate Diploma.
This comprehensive training equips students with a range of techniques, knowledge, and practical experiences necessary for auditions, character development, and performing both classical and modern pieces. Vocal and Acting Techniques, Mime and Movement, Accents and Dialects, Plays and Playwrights, Character development and Stagecraft.
With a structured progression of exams, tailored to individual aspirations, the Solo Acting program supports students in honing their craft and culminates in the prestigious Certificate of Solo Acting (Grade 6), where students create a themed recital.
Exams and exam boards are chosen in consultation with the student ensuring the exams taken are the most appropriate for that individual and their aspirations and career goals
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The Communication Skills course provides students with a valuable opportunity to enhance their communication abilities by focusing on developing articulation and listening skills. Through a structured curriculum, students progress from basic introductions to engaging in natural conversations and thoughtful discussions.
Additionally, students undertake a project of personal interest, which serves as a platform for them to showcase their newfound skills and confidently express themselves. The primary aim of this course is to build confidence and articulate students' voices, empowering them to speak up in both school and social settings.
The course places a strong emphasis on developing clear and effective articulation. Students are guided on proper pronunciation, enunciation, and emphasis, ensuring their words are communicated with clarity and precision. Through targeted exercises and practice, students gradually refine their ability to articulate their thoughts and ideas, fostering effective communication.
As part of the course, students complete a project that they can then talk about on a subject of interest to them. This can be practical (have a dinner party, arrange an outing) or conventional (Roald Dahl, my favourite football team,My Pet etc.) The focus of this course is on building confidence and articulation. Empowering them to speak up in school and social situations and to be heard.
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Public Speaking holds immense popularity among secondary school students, and for good reason. With numerous Junior Certificate subjects requiring students to present in front of their classmates on various topics, and the prominence of debating and Mini United Nations participation in secondary school culture, the Public Speaking syllabus serves as an invaluable preparation tool.
Benefits include: developing confidence, enhancing communication skills, cultivating critical thinking, encouraging creativity in their delivery and subject topics, preparing for the future- job interviews, presentations and leadership roles.
The exams cover a range of public speaking scenarios requiring the students to prepare a formal speech on a given or own choice topic. A Social or informal Speech - eg making a speech of thanks, raising a toast, introducing a speaker, making a reservation, They may also get an impromptu speech to test their ability to think on their feet and articulate their thoughts quickly and effectively. This is followed by a conversation with the examiner and questions on a range of associated topics that will have been prepared in advance. The public speaking syllabus empowers them to become effective communicators and future leaders!
This is an all round course. The focus is on speaking poetry and prose, solo acting, improvisation, reading skills, projection, clear articulation and building confidence.
As the student progresses through the 11 grades all styles and genres of drama and poetry are covered. From Greek Drama to Contemporary and including Lyrical poems, Sonnets and Verse.
Students gain a clear knowledge of the techniques of speech both in theory and practice. They build up an impressive repertoire of monologues and poetry and develop a strong appreciation for literature and theatre.
Shakespeare Company
The ITW Shakespeare Company gives students the opportunity to explore the language, movement, and imagination of Shakespeare while working as a team to create dynamic, engaging performances. Students learn to de-mystify Shakespeare’s text, develop musicality and acting skills, and gain confidence performing on stage. Every student is fully involved, forging strong friendships and building a deep appreciation for theatre and Shakespeare’s work. Past students have also won awards at festivals such as the SDToI and Feis Maitiú and gone on to train professionally at top colleges like LIR and RADA, as well as performing in theatre, film, and television.
In recent years, the company has performed productions including The Winter’s Tale, The Merchant of Venice, Hamlet, Macbeth, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo & Juliet, Much Ado About Nothing, and The Comedy of Errors. They have also performed internationally, including at Shakespeare’s Globe in London and Birmingham Old Rep, with workshops at the RSC in Stratford. The Shakespeare Company begins with a workshop at the end of August and rehearses weekly until performances in November, giving students the full experience of bringing Shakespeare to life in front of a live audience.
Short Play Competition
Our annual Short Play Competition is a highlight of the Creative Drama programme, giving students the chance to collaborate, create, and shine. Working in teams, participants take on a variety of roles—from writers and directors to performers and costume designers—bringing their original ideas to life on stage. Throughout the process, they build confidence, creativity, and teamwork skills, all while preparing for an exciting final performance. The event culminates in a showcase in front of a panel of experienced judges and a proud audience of family and friends, celebrating not only the students’ talent, but also their ability to rise to the challenge and produce something truly impressive under pressure.
Young Dramatic Arts (Youth Theatre)
Young Dramatic Arts Theatre Company, established by ITW over 20 years ago, is a high-quality theatre program designed to identify and nurture talented young actors, directors, and technicians aged 15–18.
Students fully involved in every aspect of theatre-making—from selecting plays, designing and operating lighting and sound, creating sets and props, to performing on stage and working behind the scenes.
The year begins with a Shakespeare production from September to November, including weekly rehearsals and diverse workshops in acting techniques, set and costume design, lighting, sound, and more, often featuring industry professionals in areas such as film, stage combat, accents, and comedy. From then, the company works on a new play for the National Theatre Connections Festival, premiering in a Dublin theatre in February/March and at The Lyric Theatre, Belfast in April—a highlight of the year for the past 20 years.
We proudly support Irish theatre, theatre makers, and the Irish Youth Theatre sector, aligning our work with Youth Theatre Ireland. Young Dramatic Arts Theatre Company provides an exceptional training ground for aspiring performers, and many alumni have gone on to successful careers as actors and playwrights.
Private Lessons
The ITW Drama faculty and the ITW Artistic Director Gillian Oman are also available for private monologue/audition preparation classes by arrangement. Our students have a 100% success rate in gaining places in college - our current cohort (May 2023) have been offered: The LIR, The Gaiety School, East 15, Urdang, Mountview, GSA, Performers, Italia Conti, Phoenix Performing Arts College, Trinity Drama and Theatre Studies, Inchicore College, MTU and Institute of the Arts, Barcelona.
Al Porter was a student of Gillian's for many years and also won the Leinster School of Music & Drama Excellence Award in 2009. He is currently working as a Stand Up Comedian and also writes and stars in the Olympia Theatre Pantomime every year.
These classes include:
Advice on selecting the right colleges to apply to for the individual student.
Selection of appropriate Classical and Modern/Contemporary monologues and development of a strong repertoire of contrasting pieces.
Interview technique is another key element to our preparation. Helping our students express themselves in a positive and articulate manner.
Personal Statement and College Application assistance and references for UCAS.
We have many years of experience and have had students accepted into many of the top colleges in the UK, Ireland and America including The LIR, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, LAMDA, Mountview Academy of Performing Arts, TUD Drama, The Gaiety School of Acting, Bull Alley, ICFE, The Royal Central School of Drama, Rose Bruford London, Bristol Old Vic, Laine Theatre Arts, CPA, IAB Barcelona and The Atlantic Acting School and NY Film Academy in New York.
