Founded in 2005 in Manchester by Jo Fisher, Footlights is a UK network of children's stage schools offering weekly performing arts classes in acting, singing and dancing.
Footlights has grown from a single school in the North West to a nationwide community. We have schools across the UK including locations in London.
At the heart of everything we do is a supportive, inclusive environment where children and young people can build confidence, develop performance skills and feel part of something special. Whether they are stepping on stage for the first time or building on existing experience.
Footlights classes run on Saturday mornings during term time,with some schools running after school classes and many during offering holiday schools.
My daughter has been attending Footlights stage school since she was five, she's now 15. It's been transformative for her – she has grown in confidence and skills and learnt so much. Khara is an inspiration; she has built a truly inclusive school which creates a welcoming space for all children and where diversity is celebrated. Being accepted and understood has been really important for my daughter who is neurodivergent. Khara is knowledgeable and flexible in making sure her needs are always respected and met. Footlights is my daughter’s safe and happy place. She's made strong and sustained friendships and got so much more out of her experience than I could have ever known ten years ago. We can't thank Khara and her team enough for all they've given.” Rebecca Key
“My child’s confidence has grown so much since joining Footlights. Her stammer has improved so much and is able to speak publicly now.” Claire
“Khara’s patience and understanding have made such a difference. My daughter has attended other stage schools in the past but since starting Footlights Old Trafford she has come on leaps and bounds. She is happy here and feels included.” Lauren
“A truly inclusive, nurturing environment where every child feels they belong.” Wendy
Saturdays at 09:30
Friday evening dance School. - 
During the classes, the students learn a mix of multiple dance styles and gymnastics led by our amazing, qualified teachers, all in a relaxed environment so they feel engaged and able to join in. 
Footlights Dance schoo
3 years to 16 years
Footlights Old Trafford
Streford Grammar School
Granby Road
Old Trafford
Greater Manchester
M32 8JB
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Contact / Explore
Meet Khara Pemberton
At Footlights Old Trafford, we believe that Footlights is for everyone. I’m Khara Joseph, and with over 10 years of experience working with children and young people, alongside a degree in Acting for Live and Recorded Media, I’m passionate about creating a space where every child feels welcome, supported, and inspired.
As part of the Footlights family, I’m proud to lead a school that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and individuality. We welcome children of all backgrounds, abilities, personalities, and experiences, because we believe every child deserves the chance to discover their confidence, creativity, and voice.
What I love most is watching our students grow – not just in acting, singing, and dance, but in self-belief, friendships, and life skills. At Footlights Old Trafford, we’re more than a performing arts school, we’re a community where every child belongs, every voice matters, and every child can shine.
Why Families Choose Footlights Old Trafford
With over 10 years of experience working with children and young people, I understand that no two children are the same which is what makes teaching so special. At Footlights Old Trafford, we provide high-quality training in acting, singing, and dance for children and young people aged 3 to 18 years, within a warm, supportive, and inclusive environment.
I’m passionate about creating a space where every child feels safe, seen, and valued. Through patience, encouragement, adaptability, and an inclusive approach, we meet children where they are – celebrating their individuality, supporting different learning styles, abilities, personalities, and helping each child grow at their own pace.
Whether your child is naturally confident or taking their very first steps outside their comfort zone, our goal is to help them build self-belief, resilience, friendships, and a lifelong love of performing arts.
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