FAQs

WHERE?

We are currently working from Moseley Dance Centre (572-574 Moseley Rd, Birmingham, West Midlands B12 9AA)

See our CONTACT page for details.


WHEN?

Sessions will take place on weeknights between 5 – 7pm or 7 - 9pm.


WHAT’S THE COST?

£10 per 2-hour session.

We request that you pay per term (12 sessions: £120) or in special cases in 2 or 3 instalments.

There are three terms per year, following the school timetables.


HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT?

First and foremost, we are different because of our connections with the film industry.  First Act leader Ross Berkeley Simpson has many years’ experience in film, television, theatre and music and has amassed a powerful collection of friends who not only regularly cast members of the Workshop in high profile TV, film and theatre roles but also help with specialised courses.

As well as running classical and modern theatre courses, we will run courses on ‘Film Acting’ – something not offered by any other company in the West Midlands.  We make short films and develop the show reels of young actors.  We will also make radio plays.

The workshop is not about homework or exams.  It is about on-the-job learning and fun!
We will strive not to do the same old projects as everyone else!

WHO?

First Act Workshops is run by Ross Simpson (a former session leader / play director from The Television Workshop in Birmingham before it went dark in July 2009).  Ross has a long history of directing (most recently ‘A Handbag’ by Anthony Horowitz  at The Royal and Derngate Theatre, Northampton), writing (his short film ‘The Student Body’ won the Short Sparks Film Festival 2004)and performing – he has many years experience as an actor in the theatre and he also has a musical background (he was signed to Polydor once, had a number 3 club hit and was Ronan Keating’s first ever solo support act!).  Ross adapted and directed the short film 'The Present' which won the Bridport Film Fesitval and was described by judge Jonathon Coe as 'an impressive achievement.'


WILL THIS MAKE ME FAMOUS?

If that's the only reason you're joining then you're in the wrong place - the workshop is mostly about learning, developing your craft and - most importantly - fun!  Lots of amazing opportunities come through the workshop but who knows whether you'll be lucky enough to win them.  Some workshoppers have auditions almost every month.  Some workshoppers go for years without one!  But you have to be in it to win it!

WHAT ABOUT CHILD SAFETY?

Session leaders and volunteers are DBS checked and the company is insured.  We also have a Child Protection Policy.  Please do not feel embarrassed about requesting to view these documents.

HOW DO I GET INVOLVED?

New groups starting soon.
If you would like to join, please email your details on our CONTACT page so that we can invite you for a taster session.