Take students to the stage with these performing arts school trips
For students passionate about the performing arts, immersing them in the world’s cultural capitals can be a transformative experience. These experiences offer more than just inspiration – they enhance practical understanding of the industry, support curriculum objectives, and help students develop confidence and creativity.
From the bright lights of Broadway and the West End to the historical amphitheatres of Greece and Italy, the following destinations provide students with valuable history, experience, and techniques to enable them to step confidently into the spotlight. Read on to discover how each location brings the performing arts to life.
London: World-class dance and drama excursions await
London’s West End is the pinnacle of live performance in the UK, making it an unmissable destination for any budding actor, dancer, or musician. Here, students can attend world-renowned shows spanning a range of genres, on the same stages that have both launched careers and hosted globally-renowned dancers and actors alike.
Workshops at venues like Pineapple Dance Studios or the National Theatre allow students to learn from industry professionals, covering everything from movement and vocal techniques to audition preparation. Behind-the-scenes tours of the Globe Theatre or the Royal Opera House, meanwhile, offer rare insights into stage management, set design, lighting, and costume, helping students understand the full scope of theatrical production.
Paris: Tradition meets innovation in the City of Lights
Paris is a city of elegance, artistry, and bold experimentation in the performing arts – no wonder our schools love it! The majestic Palais Garnier introduces students to the world of opera and classical ballet, while fringe venues and performance schools explore modern interpretations of physical theatre and contemporary dance.
Equity trips to Paris offer workshops tailored to students’ disciplines, whether it’s improvisational theatre, mime, or dance. Students can also delve into France’s dramatic legacy through guided tours and performances that explore the work of playwrights like Molière and Racine. Combined with opportunities to explore the city’s artistic and architectural heritage, Paris offers a well-rounded performing arts experience steeped in both tradition and creative exploration.
Barcelona: Explore a fusion of culture and creativity
Barcelona’s rich artistic heritage and expressive culture make it an inspiring destination for students of the performing arts. Flamenco, with its passionate movement and rhythmic precision, is central to the experience, and students can participate in interactive workshops that unpack its emotional and cultural significance. Barcelona’s theatres, such as the Gran Teatre del Liceu and Teatre Grec, host performances ranging from opera to experimental stagecraft, and offer educational tours to learn about their programming and production processes.
The city also encourages creativity through its street performance culture and visually stimulating architecture, notably the surreal works of Antoni Gaudí. For drama and dance students alike, Barcelona offers a unique blend of classical training and contemporary artistic influence.
Lake Garda: Perform amidst Italy’s scenic beauty
Lake Garda offers a tranquil but profoundly artistic atmosphere, ideal for nurturing young performers. Groups have the opportunity to perform in local community venues or open-air spaces, surrounded by the dramatic scenery of northern Italy. This region is closely linked with Italy’s operatic tradition, and students can explore how classical music and drama intersect through visits to historic theatres and music conservatoires.
Local festivals and musical events offer a rich cultural immersion, and workshops led by local experts provide a hands-on look at Italian vocal technique, operatic performance, and ensemble work. The stunning natural surroundings and relaxed pace make Lake Garda a perfect setting for reflective learning and creative expression.
Loutraki: Embrace ancient styles and traditions
Set along Greece’s picturesque coastline, Loutraki offers a rare opportunity for students to connect with the ancient origins of Western theatre. Workshops held in or near ancient amphitheatres allow students to explore Greek tragedy and comedy, understanding how performance was used for civic storytelling and social commentary even in those times – and how it’s influenced the world of performing arts today.
Equity’s experiences in Loutraki also explore theatrical conventions such as the use of masks, chorus work, and staging in the round. Visits to Corinth and nearby archaeological sites deepen students’ understanding of drama in context, helping them appreciate how performance has evolved over centuries. This destination is perfect for students studying classical texts, as well as those interested in the physicality and ritual of theatre.
Disneyland Paris: Enjoy theatre with a touch of magic
A trip to Disneyland Paris is a dream for many students – and no wonder! Performing within the resort gives students the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of an international audience, on professional-level stages. Disney Performing Arts workshops are tailored to different disciplines, focusing on musical theatre, dance, and stage presence, with expert Disney staff coaching students in precision, presentation, and collaboration.
The trip also includes time in the park itself, which offers inspiration through character design, storytelling, and immersive live performances. Behind-the-scenes experiences help students understand how entertainment is produced and managed on a grand scale, making this destination a masterclass in show business.
New York: The pinnacle of performing arts
There’s no place like New York City for performing arts students. Home to Broadway, the Lincoln Center, and countless conservatories, New York offers an unmatched range of learning opportunities. Students can attend top-tier productions, from Broadway musicals to experimental off-Broadway shows, and participate in masterclasses with working actors, dancers, and directors.
Visits to institutions such as the American Academy of Dramatic Arts provide insight into elite arts training, while workshops at Alvin Ailey or Steps on Broadway give students the chance to train in professional studios, learning from artists at the top of their game. From the business of theatre to the passion of performance, New York offers a truly immersive education in the arts.
Book your performing arts school trip today
Each of these destinations brings a unique perspective on the performing arts; from ancient Greek drama and Italian opera to modern musicals and Disney magic, these trips offer KS3, GCSE and A-Level students a chance to find inspiration in every moment. Whether they’re performing on stage, learning from professionals, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of great cultural centres, you can count on your performing arts students returning from these trips more confident, capable, and creatively energised.
To enquire about a performing arts school trip, get in touch with our expert team, by calling us on 01273 648248 or filling out our webform.
