Big Mouth Theatre - Totton

What it’s like

Weekly drama classes where kids build their own characters, costumes and sets, then perform in two full productions a year.

This is a term-time drama club rather than a one-off show, and the sessions are built around confidence as much as performance. Kids get proper coaching in acting technique, but they also design their own costumes, lighting and sets, which is the bit that seems to matter most here. Twice a year that work turns into an actual full scale production, so there's a real goal to work towards rather than just weekly games.

It suits ages 5 to 16, and the site is upfront that it's aimed at kids who haven't necessarily done drama before, including shy ones or those who need an outlet for extra energy. Coaches are DBS-checked and first aid trained, which is worth knowing if your child is nervous about a new activity.

Cost is where it gets a bit more involved. The main membership runs 36 sessions a year for £65 a month, or there's an After School Club for 5 to 11 year olds at £36 for six sessions in a half term, a cheaper way in if you're not ready to commit to the full programme. You get two free taster sessions before signing up, and if you do join and it's not working out, there's a 30-day money-back guarantee on the first month, which takes some of the risk out of it.

Facilities

Need to know

Best for

5 to 16, with a separate After School Club for 5 to 11s

Worth knowing

2 free taster sessions, then 30-day money-back guarantee if not satisfied

• Coaches are DBS-certified and first aid trained
• OFSTED registered, so childcare vouchers and tax-free schemes are accepted
• Two full scale productions a year, so there's a real end goal beyond weekly sessions

Plan your visit

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