My name is Eloise and I am the teacher and principal of Heartbeat School of Drama. I've been involved in the performing arts for as long as I can remember: I grew up IN a dance school (Heartbeat School of Dancing) and a record label (Heartbeat Productions), I participated in pretty much any show I could get myself into (allowing me to perform at such local venues at The Old Vic, The Hippodrome and The Bristol Beacon), took subjects at college exclusivelv related to the performing arts and eventually set off to New York City to train at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts from 2009-2012. I had a whirlwind 7 years in New York, working with numerous playwrights in developing new works, participating in 24-hour theatre festivals, independent film, studying Improvisation at the Upright Citizens Brigade, and even a cheeky stint Off-Broadway. Coming back to the UK, I realised that the full-time actor life was not actually for me, and after years of wondering what to do with all the time I had dedicated to something I love so much, the prospect of teaching and opening my own school finally clicked. On the 7th March 2022, I opened the doors to Heartbeat School of Drama and I wouldn't dream on looking back! My favourite thing about acting is being able to dissect not only a script but the minds of the characters; it's an incredible opportunity to learn about the many ways in which people work and creates a strong foundation for an empathetic nature. I want to use what I've learned, and what I love about it, to engage children to be fully connected, not only with others, but also with themselves. I am a big believer in therapy and self-reflection, and I think drama is an excellent tool to finding peace with your individuality. I am also very proudly neurodivergent, and work hard to make drama as neurodiverse-friendly as possible. While many would assume that it already is, there are a lot of aspects that just don't align (which I think is why I couldn't find my footing as a working actor!), so it is my mission to break down those blocks and create a unique environment where all creative minds can thrive. Our recent productions include self-made adaptations of Michael Rosen stories, from Bilal's Brilliant Bee, Barking for Bagels, Quick Let's Get Out of Here! All productions are treated as collaborative piece; I tailor every script to each student, and allow every student to have their own input on their dialogue, characterisation and staging. I set big challenges in a gentle environment and couldn't be prouder of what my students have achieved. Sound good to you? Here is the full timetable:
Mondays:
4:15-5:15 - Year 1-2
5:15-6:15 - Year 6-7
6:15-7:15 - Age 9-11
Tuesdays:
6:15-7:15 - Year 3-5
Wednesdays:
6:15-7:15 - Year 8-10
Fridays:
4:45-5:45 - Reception-Year 2
5:45-6:45 - Year 3-4
Also interested in Dance? Check out our partner school, Heartbeat School of Dancing!
