Preston's Meladrama Acting School launches new summer school for young performers

A Preston drama school with a track record of developing talent for television, film and theatre is inviting local children and teenagers to take centre stage this summer.

Meladrama Acting School, based in Preston and founded by professional actor Melanie Ash, is launching its Preston & Chorley Summer School next month.

Taking place at Lostock Hall Conservative Club between Monday, August 3 and Friday, August 7 2026, the summer school is open to boys and girls aged 5–16, with all experience levels welcome.

The family-run business says it has been helping young people build confidence, creativity and performance skills since 2005 and has become one of the region's most recognised independent drama schools.

Founder Melanie Ash has recently returned from filming a major new television drama in San Sebastián, Spain, while her son, Leo Ashton, is currently filming the latest series of Waterloo Road.

Leo has worked professionally since the age of six and is known for his roles in House of the Dragon, The Bay, Deep Water and numerous other television productions.

Together, Melanie and Leo also run CHAOS Actors Management, a Spotlight-approved agency representing young performers across the North West.

Melanie said: "People often think drama is only for children who want to become actors, but that's only part of the story.

"Many of our students come to us because they want to build confidence, make friends, improve communication skills or simply find a place where they feel accepted and encouraged.

"Drama teaches resilience, teamwork, creativity and self-belief. Those skills stay with young people for life."

Over the past two decades, Meladrama students have gone on to secure roles in productions including Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Waterloo Road, The Bay, House of the Dragon and national television advertising campaigns.

More recently, a number of young performers represented by Meladrama and CHAOS Actors Management have secured professional work in television dramas, feature films and commercial campaigns.

However, Melanie believes the school's greatest success stories are often the quieter ones.

"Watching a child who was once too nervous to speak in front of a group confidently perform in front of an audience is every bit as rewarding as seeing someone land a television role," she said.

The Preston & Chorley Summer School will offer a week packed with acting for stage and screen, comedy and improvisation, devising original work, filming scenes, confidence-building activities, character development, movement, singing and performance skills.

Each day runs between 9:00am and 4:00pm, although extended hours are available for those needing early drop-off or later collection.

The week will culminate in a final showcase performance for family and friends.

Meladrama says it is particularly known for its inclusive and trauma-informed approach, welcoming children and young people from all backgrounds and abilities.

Around 30% of current students have additional educational needs, with the school committed to creating an environment where every child can thrive.

Places on the Preston & Chorley Summer School are limited and early booking is recommended, with tickets costing £200 for the full week.

For more information and to book a place, visit: https://meladrama.co.uk/summer-schools/