Yes. Every course ends in a performance or sharing — including Beginners.

Whether you’re acting, writing, or just starting out, each course at MAD builds towards something real.
A moment where it all comes together.

That might mean performing on stage in front of an audience.
It might mean hearing your script read out loud by professional actors.
It might mean standing up in class and doing something you never thought you’d do.

It’s optional. But most people do it — and most are glad they did.

What kind of performance is it?

Acting for Beginners
A short, informal sharing in the MAD studio.
Family and friends are welcome.
No lighting or stage — just a relaxed, supportive way to end the course.

All other acting courses
A performance in a theatre — usually Hope Street Theatre.
Audience, lights, full setup.
This includes Script Analysis, Finding the Truth, and Theatre Training Company.

Writing courses
Writing for Beginners ends with an in-class reading, using actors.
Other writing courses finish with a public sharing in the theatre, with actors reading your work aloud on stage.

Where do the performances happen?

• Studio sharings: Held in our rehearsal space at Hope Street (for Beginners)
• Theatre performances: Usually in Hope Street Theatre or a similar local venue
• Theatre Training Company: Always performs in Hope Street Theatre or a local venue

When does it happen?

Usually in your final session of term:

• Week 8 for Acting for Beginners
• Week 10 for all other courses

Occasionally, the performance is scheduled at a slightly different time — but you’ll know well in advance.

Do I have to perform?

No. The showcase is optional — but almost everyone chooses to take part.

Even the nervous ones. Especially the nervous ones.

Everyone gets a bit jittery. That’s normal.
It means you care, and your body’s getting ready to help you do the best you can.

And once it’s over?
Most students say it was the part that changed them the most.

Can friends and family come?

• Beginners sharings: Free and relaxed
• Theatre performances: Small ticket price for audience members
• Current MAD students: Always attend free (space permitting)

What students say about performing

• “I was terrified — but now I can’t wait to do it again.”
• “The buzz of it. The nerves. The applause. I actually did it.”
• “Everyone was rooting for everyone. It felt safe to try.”
• “That moment made the whole course click.”

It’s not about being perfect. It’s about standing up and surprising yourself.

It’s the moment where everything comes together — and where you realise how far you’ve come.