Stagecoach Harrogate

A very warm welcome to Stagecoach Harrogate.
 
As Stagecoach Harrogate celebrates 29 years, we remain proud to offer exceptional part-time performing arts training for students aged 4–18. For nearly three decades, we have helped children and young people grow in self-belief, discover their talents, and thrive in a supportive environment where every student feels valued and encouraged.
 
That commitment to young people is at the heart of everything we do. Stagecoach inspires Creative Courage for Life. Through weekly singing, dancing, and drama classes, students develop confidence, communication, creativity, teamwork, and a strong sense of self: skills that reach far beyond the stage and help them flourish throughout life.
 
Our dedicated teaching team helps every child realise their potential. By recognising each student’s talents and achievements, they create a supportive, inspiring environment where creativity thrives, abilities grow, and every class is filled with learning, laughter, and joy.
 
 
For more information or to reserve your place, please get in touch with Rachael today.


Principal Rachael Whitehead

Your child is in safe hands. All of our Team are Enhanced DBS checked.


Noticeboard

Summer Term 2026

We will be creating some exciting Musical Theatre this term introducing new skills and techniques. The senior choir will perform in Cabaret at Newby Hall for The Glitter Ball in aid of Mind, where we will present a cheque for £2000,300 raised at our Show in March. Harrogate Stage coach independent inspector's report - "Outstanding !"

Parent Testimomonials

''Dear Ce Thank you very much for care and support. It has been a wonderful year indeed.'' "Dear Ce We just wanted to say how fantastic the performance was at the end of last term. You did an amazing job and we are so happy that Maisie is a part of your Stagecoach, along with your passion and guidance"

Where to buy Jazz Shoes?

In order to give you the best possible experience and assortment of Jazz shoes, Stagecoach now has its own unique online shoe store which is part of the dancewear specialist - Mydancestore. Simply click the button below and it will take you straight there. Please do follow the supplier’s advice when choosing the shoe size. Happy shopping!

Weekly Classes

Early Stages (for ages 4-6 yrs)

Stagecoach Early Stages

Our 90-minute Early Stages classes run alongside the main Stagecoach schools, giving young performers the chance to learn key skills in each of the three musical theatre disciplines of singing, dancing, and acting each week. These fun and engaging sessions build skills and confidence, so it is an easy step when it is time to transfer to the next stage.
 

Main Stages (for ages 6-18 yrs)

Stagecoach Main Stages
Our 3-hour weekly Main Stages classes are split in three age appropriate groups, where young people learn new skills in each of the complementary Musical Theatre disciplines of singing, dancing, and acting. We nurture the shy and apprehensive, until they find their feet and voice, whilst at the same time developing and channelling those with bundles of talent, confidence and energy. We believe in the potential of every child!

 

Holiday Workshops

Meet The Team

Principal - Rachael Whitehead

Rachael discovered her love of performing arts early, through dance and performing arts classes that included singing, drama, and many dance styles. She also studied mime, broadening her performance skills and deepening her appreciation of storytelling through movement.
 
Growing up, Rachael performed whenever she could, appearing in dance productions at Harrogate’s Royal Hall and many school musicals. She also developed as a flautist and piccolo player, performing regularly with Harrogate Music Centre and gaining valuable orchestral and ensemble experience.
 
These experiences led Rachael to pursue professional training. She gained a Diploma in Musical Theatre at The Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama, then continued her dance training at Preston Dance College. There, she achieved teaching qualifications in Ballet, Tap, and Modern Theatre through the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing. She has since gained RAD Registered Teacher Status and supports students through examinations with both dance boards.
 
With extensive teaching experience across North and West Yorkshire, Rachael has inspired many young performers to build confidence, creativity, and skill. She has also continued to perform, bringing industry experience and enthusiasm into every class.
 
Rachael has built an impressive choreographic portfolio, creating productions for venues including The Blackpool Winter Gardens and York Theatre Royal.
 
Stagecoach Harrogate holds a special place in Rachael’s heart. After teaching dance at the school for 17 years, she is delighted to become Principal and continue the legacy Ce Darby began 29 years ago. Passionate about nurturing every child’s potential, Rachael is committed to a welcoming, inclusive, and inspiring environment where students build confidence, develop creativity, and discover the Creative Courage for Life at the heart of Stagecoach.

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