Brighton is one of the UK’s most artistic coastal cities, known for its lively theatre scene, creative community, and passion for the performing arts. If you’re an aspiring actor looking to refine your craft or a beginner eager to take your first steps into performance, Brighton offers an impressive selection of acting schools — each with unique styles, teaching methods, and tuition fees.
In this article, we’ll explore the Top 10 Acting Schools in Brighton and their fees, helping you choose the perfect fit for your career goals, budget, and experience level.
Top 10 Acting Schools In Brighton And Fees
1. ACT Drama School (Academy of Creative Training)
Located in the heart of Brighton, the Academy of Creative Training (ACT) is one of the South Coast’s most reputable acting schools. Established in 1997, ACT Brighton has built a reputation for providing professional training that combines rigorous technique with accessibility for all budgets.
Courses & Fees:
- Foundation in Acting (1 year, 3 terms) – £875 per term
- Diploma in Acting (2 years, 6 terms) – £1,975 per term
- Short Acting Workshops (2 weeks) – £200 approximately
ACT is ideal for both beginners and those seeking to go pro. With small class sizes, professional tutors, and flexible scheduling (evening and weekend courses), it caters perfectly to working adults and serious students alike.
Why Choose ACT Brighton:
- Accredited, long-standing reputation in professional training
- Affordable compared to London drama schools
- Great stepping-stone for those pursuing acting careers
2. The Brighton Academy (TBA)
The Brighton Academy (TBA) offers vocational performing arts training that blends acting, singing, and movement. Located just outside the city centre, TBA is known for its dynamic learning environment and hands-on training from industry professionals.
Courses & Fees:
- TBA Associates (Part-time) – £30 per session (monthly)
- Foundation Course (Full-time) – £8,500 per year
The Brighton Academy is particularly suitable for younger students (ages 15+) or adults preparing for professional auditions. It emphasises versatility, with modules in screen acting, stagecraft, and performance skills.
Why Choose The Brighton Academy:
- Excellent for beginners and intermediate students
- Offers full-time foundation programs
- Combines practical and theoretical learning
3. Theatretrain Brighton
For children and teens, Theatretrain Brighton is one of the most trusted names in performing arts training. The school offers weekend classes in acting, singing, and dancing, fostering both confidence and creativity from an early age.
Courses & Fees:
- Main Company (Ages 6–18) – £25 per week or £84 per month
- Junior Company (Ages 4–5) – £15 per class
Each Saturday, students participate in workshops designed to develop teamwork, communication, and stage presence. Theatretrain also provides performance opportunities in national theatres and festivals.
Why Choose Theatretrain Brighton:
- Focused on young learners
- Encourages creativity and public speaking
- Great value for money
4. Lantern Theatre Brighton Acting Courses
Located at the Lantern Theatre, this school offers a variety of short, focused acting workshops ideal for both beginners and experienced performers. Their small group sizes create a supportive and professional environment.
Courses & Fees:
- Screen Acting / Acting for Camera (4 classes) – £80
- Age-Positive Acting Workshops (6 classes) – £90
Their workshops run year-round and are popular among adults looking for short, affordable, and highly practical acting training.
Why Choose Lantern Theatre Brighton:
- Great for short-term skill development
- Specialises in screen acting and scene study
- Affordable and flexible scheduling
5. Drama Kids Sussex (Brighton Area)
Drama Kids Sussex provides acting classes for children and teenagers, focusing on creativity, teamwork, and confidence. They operate in multiple Brighton locations and cater to all skill levels.
Courses & Fees:
- Trial Classes (2 sessions) – £21 total
- Termly rates vary depending on class level
Drama Kids Sussex has a warm, encouraging environment that makes it perfect for young learners looking to explore performance while building communication skills.
Why Choose Drama Kids Sussex:
- Perfect introduction for kids into acting
- Focus on self-confidence and public speaking
- Professional but nurturing approach
6. Savage Heart Drama Classes (Adults)
Savage Heart Drama runs adult acting courses in Brighton and Hove. These classes are designed for hobbyists, professionals brushing up their skills, or anyone wanting to boost confidence through drama.
Courses & Fees:
- Beginners Drama Course (8 weeks) – £120
- Intermediate Drama Course (6 weeks) – £85
The courses include improvisation, character work, and scene performance. Savage Heart has earned great reviews for its friendly yet structured approach.
Why Choose Savage Heart Drama:
- Excellent for adult beginners
- Short-term, low-cost options
- Relaxed, confidence-building environment
7. BIMM University Brighton – Acting for Screen
Known for its music and creative arts excellence, BIMM University Brighton also offers a highly respected BA (Hons) in Acting for Screen. This program focuses on modern acting techniques for film, TV, and digital media.
Courses & Fees:
- BA (Hons) Acting for Screen – £15,950 per year
Students benefit from industry-standard facilities, professional camera training, and networking with directors and producers.
Why Choose BIMM Brighton:
- Degree-level qualification
- Industry connections and practical film experience
- Excellent location for creative networking
8. Performers College Brighton Campus
Performers College, now part of the BIMM Group, has a strong national reputation for performing arts training. Its Brighton campus offers BA (Hons) Acting for Stage, Screen, and Digital Media, combining traditional and modern performance techniques.
Courses & Fees:
- UK Students: £9,535 per year
- International Students: £15,950 per year
Students gain experience across multiple disciplines — acting, movement, and digital performance — and are taught by industry professionals.
Why Choose Performers College:
- Comprehensive degree-level programs
- Professional-level facilities and staff
- Perfect for aspiring stage or screen actors
9. ACT Kids Theatre (Part of ACT Brighton)
ACT Kids Theatre (AKT) is the youth branch of the Academy of Creative Training. It offers after-school and weekend classes for children and teens, providing a direct path into professional-level training later in life.
Courses & Fees:
- Juniors (Ages 7–11): £11.50 per week (£138 per term)
- Youth Group (Ages 13+): £18.50 per week (£222 per term)
The classes focus on stage presence, improvisation, and ensemble work. Many ACT Kids graduates continue into the main ACT Diploma program.
Why Choose ACT Kids:
- Ideal for children with long-term acting interests
- Structured, progressive training
- Affordable term-based pricing
10. TBA Foundation Course (Brighton Academy)
The Foundation Acting Course at The Brighton Academy is designed as a professional preparation program for those planning to apply to drama schools or universities.
Courses & Fees:
- Full-time Foundation Acting Course: £8,500 per year
The course blends voice, movement, improvisation, and scene study to prepare students for professional auditions. Graduates often progress to top drama schools in London and across the UK.
Why Choose TBA Foundation Course:
- Full-time immersive acting experience
- Comprehensive preparation for drama school auditions
- Industry-focused curriculum
How to Choose the Right Acting School in Brighton
With so many acting schools in Brighton, selecting the right one depends on your goals, age, and experience level. Here are a few quick tips:
- Define your goals: Are you aiming for a professional career or taking classes as a hobby?
- Consider time commitment: Full-time courses like ACT or TBA require more hours, while Lantern Theatre or Savage Heart offer short, flexible classes.
- Check accreditation: Schools like BIMM and Performers College award recognised qualifications.
- Compare fees: Brighton’s acting schools range from £80 short workshops to £15,000 full-year degrees.
- Visit or attend taster sessions: Many schools allow you to attend a sample class before enrolling.
Acting School Fees in Brighton – Quick Comparison
| Acting School | Type of Course | Duration | Approx. Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Drama School | Foundation / Diploma | 1–2 years | £875–£1,975 per term |
| The Brighton Academy | Full-time Foundation | 1 year | £8,500 per year |
| Theatretrain Brighton | Youth Classes | Weekly | £25 per week |
| Lantern Theatre Brighton | Short Courses | 4–6 weeks | £80–£90 |
| Drama Kids Sussex | Kids Classes | Termly | £21 trial / term rates vary |
| Savage Heart Drama | Adult Classes | 6–8 weeks | £85–£120 |
| BIMM University Brighton | Degree | 3 years | £15,950 per year |
| Performers College Brighton | Degree | 3 years | £9,535–£15,950 per year |
| ACT Kids Theatre | Youth Acting | Termly | £138–£222 per term |
| TBA Foundation Course | Pre-drama school | 1 year | £8,500 per year |
Conclusion
Brighton’s vibrant performing arts culture makes it one of the best places in the UK to learn acting. Whether you’re an adult looking to reignite your creative spark or a young performer dreaming of the stage, there’s a course for every passion and budget.
From ACT Drama School’s professional diplomas to Theatretrain’s youth programs, each institution offers a unique route into the world of performance. The key is to find a course that matches your goals, budget, and lifestyle — and then dive in with confidence.