New Earth Academy provides FREE specialist training and opportunities in the performing arts for East and South East Asians* (ESEA) aged 18+ living  in the UK.

The only programme of its kind in the UK, our courses are designed for those with an interest in developing their performance skills and engagement with live theatre.

How does it work?

Initially a week-long acting summer school based in London, the Academy has grown over its 16 years to encompass a range of disciplines and locations. New Earth Academy plays a key role in addressing the under representation of ESEA artists on UK stages and screens as well as behind the scenes by providing a safe and supportive environment to gain access to professional training, develop new skills, join creative networks and engage with industry professionals.

In 2026 our courses will take place in London, Manchester, Liverpool and York and include training in Performing, Theatre Making and Producing and Playwriting. Please click on the links below for more information about each individual course.

If you have any questions about the programme, please read the FAQ below. If you require the documents to be in a different format or need any adjustments made in order to apply, please get in touch with us by emailing academy@newearththeatre.org.uk

New Earth Academy is delivered in partnership with The Lowry, our Strategic Partner, and Factory International/Aviva Studios, alongside HOME, the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, and York Theatre Royal. The programme is further supported by Horizons Collective, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire of Acting, Birmingham Hippodrome and Arts Council England.

There are a range of opportunities taking place across the UK listed below. Please head to the opportunity link to sign-up to the respective events.

New Earth Theatre Makers Academy - Greater Manchester - Monday 29 June – Friday 3 July

New Earth Theatre Makers Academy - York - Monday 6th July – Friday 10 July

Performing Shakespeare Academy - Monday 27th – Friday 31st July

Performers Academy - London - Monday 14th to Friday 18th July

Performers Academy Plus - London - Monday 20th July – Friday 24th July and Monday 27th – Friday 31st July

Theatre Makers Academy Plus - Greater Manchester and the North West

September 2025 to February 2026

Key Dates: (Applicants must be available to attend all below dates)

Weekend Residential 20th & 21st September 2025 at HOME

Masterclass 1 - Mon 20th October

Masterclass 2 - Mon 10th November

Masterclass 3 - Mon 8th December

Masterclass 4 -  Weds 14th Jan 

New Earth Academy Programmes in Salford & Greater Manchester are supported by Lowry, HOME and Factory International.