Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (SPAA) has opened its doors as the first and only dedicated academy of its kind in the region. This state-of-the-art world-class facility will shape future stars and technicians of the world stage with a cast of leading educators teaching qualifications in the field of international performing arts.

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates, Ruler of Sharjah and President of Sharjah Performing Arts Academy, officially opened SPAA with a spectacularly staged performance of, God Book – The Conflict between Light and Darkness, authored by the Ruler, produced by Sharjah National Theatre, and applauded by an audience of VIP guests from the Arab and international arts world.

“We are grateful to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for launching this contemporary world-class academy,” said Peter Barlow, Executive Director of SPAA. “It is our mission to do as His Highness wished, to create a new theatre revolution, find common paths for the development of international theatre and performing arts, and to train and educate creative citizens of the world.  The Academy is first and foremost a higher education institute dedicated to the pursuit of best practice in professional performing arts.”

SPAA offers the opportunity for talented candidates to study full-time Bachelor degrees in Acting, Production, and Musical Theatre, with programmes led by highly qualified professionals and educators using intensive, practice-based training in performing arts and production with the very best equipment, technology and facilities.

“This outstanding new academy will support the developing professional performing arts scene in the UAE and wider region. This is a place that will nurture the skills of talented individuals and pave the way for their future on and off the world stage. We have set out to ensure the most innovative teaching techniques create Olympians of the performing arts world,” Peter continued.

In addition to offering undergraduate qualifications with second to none facilities, the new academy will also act as a cultural hub for local and regional audiences to enjoy a rich programme of public performances, events, and curated exhibitions.

The opening team at SPAA is a cast of the very best educators, directors, choreographers, designers, stage managers and technicians. With inspiration from the world’s best, students will have the opportunity to explore the world of performing arts and become credible performers, dancers, actors, designers, and theatre technicians.

The academy welcomed its first students this term and will soon be announcing applications for the class of 2020.

“It’s such a pleasure to see our students already in action, learning from a team of international professionals and teachers who have worked in major performing arts venues throughout the world,” Peter added.

The facilities at SPAA offer students a home to foster their talents and shape their future. The academy boasts a 432 seat main theatre, 126 seat studio theatre, dedicated dance, acting and sound recording studios, rehearsal studio, a fully equipped green screen television studio, library, gym, onsite accommodation and much more.

SPAA has also launched a ‘Children and Young Performers’ weekend programme for young people in and around the Emirates to learn acting, singing, dancing, and musical theatre. The classes are open to passionate and talented students from ages 4 – 19.

For further information on Sharjah Performing Arts Academy, the calendar of upcoming public performances and enrolment options,visit https://www.spaa.ae/