Deirdre founded Kaleidoscope in 2003 with just one small class of enthusiastic children in a chilly church hall in Lewes. In those early days she often taught while carrying her baby son, Callum, on her hip. Word soon spread, more children joined the fun, and the Kaleidoscope community began to grow into the award-winning performing arts organisation we are today.
Kaleidoscope offers a wide range of weekly drama, dance and musical theatre classes, as well as Lamda Acting Exams, Musical Theatre Exams, Easter holiday workshops, weekend sessions and our much-loved annual Summer School. Our Youth Theatre performs in the Brighton Fringe Festival each year, and we offer hundreds of free HAF places to local children from low income families.
With our dedicated and enthusiastic team of teachers and teaching assistants, we’ve built a reputation for imaginative, visually striking productions - including Harry Potter, Shrek, Peter Pan, The Tempest, Arabian Nights and Oz.
Above all, we give children across East Sussex the chance to work together and experience the magic of creating live theatre!
In 2013, Kaleidoscope were invited to become the performing arts partner of Priory School in Lewes. We continue to work closely with pupils and teachers, running weekly after-school classes and taking part in the school shows.
Deirdre wanted a name that felt playful, creative and full of possibility. She remembered receiving a kaleidoscope as a child and spending hours fascinated by the ever-changing patterns inside. It perfectly captured the sense of imagination, discovery and creativity she wanted the company to inspire.
A unique, child-centred curriculum: Created by Deirdre, our founder and artistic director, every class is carefully planned to nurture creativity, confidence and a love of the performing arts.
Confidence, communication and teamwork: Children are taught listening skills, encouraged to share ideas and support one another, all whilst growing in confidence - skills that help them not only on stage, but in everyday life.
High standards in a supportive environment: We encourage respect, independence and pride in every child’s work, helping each student feel valued and inspired to contribute their own ideas.