We’re pleased to announce that Arts and Homelessness International (AHI) in collaboration with One Roof ODAC will be starting regular scratch nights to be held at Old Diorama Arts Centre (ODAC). The first event will take place on Friday 12th September 2025.

A scratch night is an event where artists/creatives with lived experience of homelessness can show work that is still in progress. This might be a song, a poem, a fragment of a play, or a visual artwork that isn’t yet finished. It’s a space to try things out, to explore, and to begin conversations around work that’s still forming.

These scratch nights are open to artists/creatived with lived experience as well as AHI & One Roof ODAC communities with lived experience of homelessness, creating a safe and supportive environment for artists/creatives at different stages of their careers to share and discuss their work. Discussion will play a huge part in these events.

We are especially keen for creatives and artists with lived experience of homelessness to attend; whether as performers or audience members as your voices and perspectives are at the heart of this programme.

All conversations will be guided by the Critical Response Process developed by artist Liz Lerman. This is a kind and supportive structure for group discussion, enabling valuable feedback from the audience without overwhelming artists with harsh criticism or unhelpful praise. It’s about going deeper, helping artists learn more about their own work and the processes of others.

Each night will feature three or four artists. The work could take many forms—performance, visual sketches, ideas, a few lines of a poem or song lyrics. After each presentation, there’ll be a structured discussion, and then we’ll move on to the next artist.

The atmosphere will be relaxed and informal, with plenty of opportunities to socialise and enjoy refreshments.We hope this scratch nights will become a regular feature of our community calendar—an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and support each other, artistically and socially.

If you’re serious about a career in makeup artistry, our 4-Month Hair and Makeup Course is the perfect choice.

Led by award-winning makeup designers at CBMA Makeup Academy in London, this intensive, hands-on program covers everything from beauty makeup to special effects (SFX) techniques. You’ll work closely with industry professionals to master the essential skills needed for film, TV, and fashion. By the end of this course, you’ll be ready to create a wide range of looks, from classic beauty to intricate special effects, giving you the tools to launch your makeup artistry career.

Performance Preparation Academy is a warm and lively community of performers, industry practitioners and facilitators.

We champion a safe and supportive working environment, promoting a strong ensemble ethic shared by our staff and students.

Our students enjoy long lasting personal and professional relationships formed whilst closely exploring a wide range of learning experiences, rehearsal-based projects and public performances.

We are dedicated to individual development, and a team of passionate teachers deliver a rigorous and innovative training programme, designed to prepare graduates for the Musical Theatre industry as a triple threat performer.

Reflection on professional practice is an empowering aspect of the student experience, and in the third year there is the option of a reflective journal or a practical research project.

In addition, there is the possibility of access to the PPA Agency, which has enviable industry links and may promote graduates into the world of Musical Theatre with access to agents, casting directors and potential employers. Where possible, we encourage students to develop industry links via public performances, auditions, work-based learning opportunities, and the Showcase in London’s West End.

PPA is an inclusive and lively community of performers, industry practitioners and facilitators.

We champion a safe and supportive working environment, promoting a strong ensemble ethic whilst allowing individuality and identity.

Our students enjoy long lasting personal and professional relationships formed while closely exploring a wide range of learning experiences, rehearsal-based projects and public performances.

We are dedicated to individual development and our team of industry-experienced tutors deliver a rigorous and innovative training programme designed to prepare graduates for today’s industry with a dual focus on both Stage and Screen.

Reflection on professional practice is an empowering aspect of the student experience and in the third year there is the opportunity to write your dissertation on the subject that matters most to you.

In addition, there is the possibility of access to the PPA Agency, which has enviable industry links and may promote graduates into the Acting world with access to agents, casting directors and potential employers. Where possible, we encourage students to develop industry links via public performances, auditions, work-based learning opportunities and the Showcase.

BA (Hons) Acting for Stage and Screen is validated by De Montfort University. To apply for this course you will need to have 96 UCAS points (new tariff) and be over the age of 18 before the 1st September at enrolment.