Arden School of Theatre, City Campus Manchester, Manchester (2026)

It was one of the first establishments in the UK to offer vocational, degree level theatrical courses. ‘The Arden’ has excellent, long-established links with theatre companies and industry professionals across Manchester and the north west. We benefit from offering university level courses as part of The Manchester College. Courses at Arden School of Theatre are taught by current industry professi

onals. We aim to create independent, work-ready performers with the confidence to face the industry and the courage to create their own work. We're looking for students who will change and develop the industry. We’re deeply committed to producing self-reliant practitioners with a robust understanding of their art form. We do this by creating a strong and genuine relationship with the industry; academically and professionally. Arden has a distinguished and successful history and is unique in the UK. We’re a theatre school, and also part of one of the largest colleges in the country. We provide the highest levels of professional training in the context of university level qualifications. Based at the stunning Nicholls House on The Manchester College’s Nicholls Campus, Arden is a hub of creative exploration. Our corridors are filled with the activity of performing, acting, singing and dancing students.

23/01/2026

Throwback to our incredible third year actors redefining Love and Information by Caryl Churchill and directed by our very own programme leader for acting Michael Peavoy. Sharp, bold and full of heart. What a Company! 🎭

06/09/2025

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that the Arden School of Theatre mourns the tragic loss of our beloved lecturer, Will Nelson, who lost his life along with his partner, Kayleigh Smith, a talented theatre director and proud MA graduate of our institution in the Lisbon tram disaster.

Kayleigh had recently completed her Masters with us and was an aspiring theatre director with immense talent, drive, and warmth. She was admired by her peers and tutors alike for her creativity, dedication, and kindness, and she had a bright future ahead.

Will was more than a teacher, he was a force of nature. A fountain of knowledge in the arts, a maverick in his methods, and a true visionary who reshaped the minds and spirits of generations of students. His passion for theatre was matched only by his unwavering commitment to challenging norms, provoking thought, and nurturing creativity in every soul he encountered.

To be taught by Will was to be transformed. His lectures were not just lessons, they were experiences. He inspired, questioned, and uplifted. His presence in our halls was magnetic, his voice unforgettable, and his ideas revolutionary. The Arden family is devastated by the loss of one of our greats. We will eternally miss his constant questioning, his unique perspectives, and the warmth he brought to every room.

Will’s love for wrestling was legendary, he never missed a chance to drop an obscure wrestling fact into a conversation, often to the delight and confusion of his students. It was one of the many quirks that made him so deeply loved.

Rest in peace, dear friend. You were a kind, wonderful soul, and your legacy will live on in every student you inspired, every colleague you challenged, and every heart you touched.

Our hearts and condolences go out to both Will and Kayleigh’s families at this time.

With love and remembrance,
The Arden School of Theatre

02/09/2025

You are invited to join us on:

Saturday 4th October | 10:00–13:00 | The Arden School of Theatre

📍 Kick off at 10:00 AM in the Longmore Theatre with a powerful welcome from our Head of School — hear the vision, feel the passion, and get inspired.

Then dive into a hands-on taster workshops where you’ll experience some of our courses.

After that, course-specific chats with our tutors — Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance, Theatre & Performance, Vocal Studies & Performance, Technical Theatre - we’ve got it all

Whether you’re a bold performer or a curious creative, this is your pass to see life at The Arden.

✨ Book your place now: www.ucenmanchester.ac.uk/events/degree-open-day

Want to find a place where you can inspire, create and perform - learning your trade in a true drama school experience!

13/08/2025

✨ Good Luck on A-Level Results Day! ✨

From all of us at The Arden School of Theatre, we wish you every success for your results. Whether you’re celebrating or considering your next step, we’re here to help.

📞 Call our Clearing Hotline on 0161 674 7777 to speak to our friendly Admissions Team – available all day Thursday and Friday this week to guide you through your options.

We have a very limited number of places remaining for September 2025 entry. As a drama school, all places are offered subject to audition, ensuring the right fit for both you and the course.

Address

City Campus Manchester
Manchester
M31PT

Website

http://www.thearden.co.uk/

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Arden School of Theatre