Performing arts business expands across South West with new opening
Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA) is continuing its expansion across the South West with the launch of a new academy in Long Ashton, North Somerset, as local demand for performing arts training continues to grow in the region.
The new academy will be led by Principal Carly Bond, who opened her first PQA academy in Bristol in 2018, and has since grown the business to include two thriving academies across the South West. Today, they offer five different classes and support more than 250 young performers.
Carly first discovered her love of musical theatre in Bristol before working in London's commercial theatre scene, completing a PGCE, and lecturing in musical theatre.
Principal Carly Bond said, "Opening my first academy almost a decade ago allowed me to build a business around my passion, while making a real impact in my local community. The demand across Bristol has been incredible, and I'm thrilled to be opening our fifth academy in Long Ashton. It's proof that families are looking for quality performing arts education that builds both creative and life skills."
There are now 17 academies across the South West, contributing to a total of 255 academies nationwide. Each academy offers children aged 4-18 the opportunity to develop skills in musical theatre, comedy, drama, film and television, while also building confidence, communication and teamwork.
PQA's unique model enables people from a wide range of backgrounds to start and run their own academies, typically operating at weekends, making it possible for principals to build a business around their passion while balancing other commitments.
Emma Taylor, Head of Business at PQA said, "The South West has become a real growth area for PQA, with principals like Carly demonstrating how our business model enables people to build thriving, multi-academy operations. Carly's success in opening her second academy shows both the demand for quality performing arts training in the region and the strength of our model."
