Last month I sat down with founder Emil Dale and principal Victoria Hammond to talk about just how much the drama school has grown.
Sixteen years after opening full time, Emil Dale Academy has become a top choice for all round musical theatre training, with graduates working across stage and screen and a brand new building transforming life at the school.
You’ve known each other for nearly 30 years. Tell me about that.
“Gosh, we are getting on a bit,” says Vicky. “We went to middle school together and did theatre from a young age… we’ve always shared that same love of performance and training.”
So how did it all grow from £60 worth of Vistaprint flyers into this?
“It’s mad, really,” says Emil. “It’s been such a journey.” He puts it down to “focus, attention to detail, and not trying to be everything to everyone.”
You’re known for your big productions and for having a theatre in an old factory.
“I’m obsessed with every part of a production, on stage and off,” Emil says. “We want students to be part of work that feels ambitious, exciting and properly realised.”
“It’s changed everything,” Vicky says of the new building. “Students are in an environment that feels professional, focused and ambitious.”
Emil agrees: “It feels like the best it’s ever been here… the building has allowed us to do more, expect more, and give students an experience that feels world class.”
More than anything, what stands out is the atmosphere: old school values, a modern approach, and a unique training environment. It’s truly stunning!
“We are feeling very proud of our journey,” says Vicky.
There really has never been a better time to train at Emil Dale Academy.
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