Performing Arts Academy
Thurles, Co. Tipperary
An innovative, independent performing arts school offering equal opportunities to the complete beginner right through to the avid performer.
Whether performing is a pastime or a passion we encourage students to develop at their own pace and we offer performance opportunities for students every year.
Taking great pride in the social development of our students, we bring people together in a vibrant and exciting community to explore the magical world of theatre and performing arts. No matter how large or small the goal, we will encourage students to surpass even their own expectations.
Term Dates
2026- 2027
We are returning to a two term system this year
Term 1 – 7th Sept 2026 – 19th Dec 2026
Term 2 – 11th Jan 2027 - 15th May 2027
Show Week / Make up week – 17th – 22ndMay
Holiday dates
Halloween mid term - 26th Oct - 1st Nov
Christmas - 20th Dec – 10th Jan
Spring Mid Term - 15th – 21st Feb)
Easter Break - 22nd Mar - 4th Apr)
Our Home!
Our new, purpose built studios host a large Dance studio, large Music studio, large Drama studio, a fully kitted out Band room, an Animation studio, and several small teaching rooms, as well as a spacious reception area for students and parents to wait.
The address is
The Encore Studio Space
O'Donovan Rossa Street
Thurles
E41 HR12
Theatre School
A combination of classes in drama, singing and dance for children aged 4 - 18 to get together in a supportive, fun and creative environment.
We take children on a journey from learning techniques, through rehearsals, to a final end of year performance and while performing is our main focus, we aim to build confidence as well as develop skills in the art of theatre.
CLASS INFORMATION
Classes run on a Saturday morning and are divided by school year.
10:30 - 11:15 Blue Group - Junior & Senior Infants - €200 per term
10:30 - 12:00 Purple Group - 1st & 2nd class - €220 per term
11.15 - 13:00 Red Group - 3rd & 4th class - €230 per term
13:00 - 15:00 Orange Group - 5th & 6th class - €240 per term
12:00 - 15:00 Yellow Group - 1st - 3rd year - €320 per term
12:00 - 15:00 Green Group - TY - 6th year - €320 per term
FEES
Fees are payable in advance of each term.
Parents will be invoiced after booking a class.
UNIFORM
Our uniform is provided by Malley Sport. Please go to the uniform section on the site for the link to the shop. The t-shirt and hoodie is a requirement, any other item is optional. Anything worn not the uniform must be black. We also require a pair of black jazz shoes, available from any dance shop.
Drama
Through role-play and improvisation young children get to stretch their imagination, experimenting with words and feelings. By interacting with others they learn vital social skills and can help improve their vocabulary and communication skills.
Singing
We introduce pupils to different rhythms and tempos in music allowing them to challenge themselves with a wide range of songs while improving technique and vocal ability. Working in groups pupils learn harmonies while solo singing will equip the young performers with the confidence and skill to find the meaning of the song and portray characters with ease.
Dance
Working in groups the children learn fun and contemporary routines. We show them how to warm up their bodies to avoid injury and teach them routines in many different styles of dance.
Boys Musical Theatre class
No girls allowed!!
This boys only class will incorporate all three elements of musical theatre, singing, dancing and drama. It is for boys from 1st class to 3rd year who would rather not do their class with a bunch of girls!!
Saturday:
Juniors (1st-3rd class) 15:15-16:15
Intermediates (4th-6th class) 16:15-17:15
Seniors (1st-3rd year) 17:15-18:15
Fees: €210 per term.
Discount available for siblings. Fees must be paid before the start of term. Parents will be invoiced after booking a class.
Uniform: Dwan Academy hoodie and T-shirt, black tracksuit bottoms and trainers. Please go to the Uniform section of the site for the link to the Malley Sports shop.
Drama Classes
Group Drama classes exploring character, voice projection and ensemble acting through games and script work
Thursdays
Junior Drama 17:00 - 18:00 1st-3rd class
Intermediate Drama 18:00 - 19:00 4th-6th class
Fees: €210 per term.
Discount available for siblings. Fees must be paid before the start of term. Parents will be invoiced after booking a class.
Uniform: Dwan Academy hoodie and T-shirt, black tracksuit bottoms and trainers. Please go to the Uniform section of the site for the link to Malley Sports shop.
Hip Hop Classes
High energy lessons based on fun, fitness and attitude.
Hip hop dancing combines an impressive footwork and unique movement to the beat of the music. From freezes to locking and popping, hip hop dancing will release your inner rhythm. The best part is learning how to express your individuality once you learn the basics.
Class schedule
Classes run on a Monday afternoon and are divided by school year.
16:10 - 17:00 Tigers ~ 1st to 3rd class ~ €180 per term
17:00 - 18:00 Jaguars ~ 4th to 6th class ~ €210 per term
18:00 - 19:00 Panthers ~ Secondary school ~ €210 per term
Class places are limited. Booking is essential. Email us on the link below to book your place!
Class information
FEES
Discount available for siblings. Fees must be paid before the start of term. Parents will be invoiced after booking a class.
UNIFORM
Our uniform is provided by Malley Sport. Please go to the uniform section on the site for the link to the shop. The t-shirt and hoodie is a requirement, any other item is optional. Anything worn not the uniform must be black. We also require a pair of black trainers.
Animation
Now in its second year, this class provides a space for those with a love for bringing stories to life through the medium of art.
Craft characters, and create worlds. Bring to life your imagination frame by frame.
Learn the art of animation, from sketching, to painting, to model making
Wednesdays
4-5pm 7-10 year olds
5-6pm 11-14 year olds
€210 per term
Speech & Drama
Thursdays & Fridays
Private Lessons
Build confidence in communication skills with private lessons for all ages and abilities.
Exams
We use the very flexible Irish Board of Speech and Drama syllabus as a basis for the lessons. Exams can be entered twice a year.
Fees
Lessons are €330 per term
MUSIC LESSONS
"Music gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination…"
Learning an instrument is far more than just a hobby; it’s a new talent that develops confidence, charisma and personal expression. As a parent, encouraging your child to learn music will open them to an entirely new world of rich, fulfilling experiences.If you’re an adult learner, you can give yourself a new opportunity like taking up those piano lessons you’ve always wanted. It is never too late to learn and appreciate music: we provide a chance to learn a new skill and enhance your music theory knowledge or just indulge in your favourite relaxing past time.Exams can help give focus to the lessons and a great sense of achievement, but are not mandatory.
Voice Lessons
Mondays & Tuesdays
Private Lessons
Build technique, repertoire and confidence with private lessons
Exams
Choose from RIAM, ABRSM, Trinity or Irish Board of Speech and Drama Syllabi. Or you can choose not to enter exams and work towards a recital
Fees
Lessons are €330 per term
Learn for fun!
If the thought of an exam or recital scares you then come and learn for fun. Build your confidence in your singing voice and learn a wide repertoire of songs
Drums
Come and be a rock star!
We offer drum lessons for all ages and stages.
Learn to rock out to all your favourite songs, how to read drum score, and how to create a different rhythm with each hand and foot.
Day is TBC for 26/27
€330 per term
Guitar & Ukelele Lessons
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays
Learn chord patterns and strumming technique to your favourite songs
Groups
Individual or Group lessons
Price
€180 group / €330 individual per term
Lessons
Half hour slots
Bass Guitar Lessons
Be the coolest band member!
Learn the Bass!
Learn rocking riffs, and rolling rhythms. From Funk to Soul all musical tastes are covered.
Spaces for avid enthusiasts and enthusiastic beginners.
Tuesdays
€330 per term for 30 minute lessons
Piano Lessons
Music lessons with skilled teachers can increase confidence, and furnish you with a life interest, as well as giving an appreciation of one of education's most rich and rewarding disciplines.
We offer one to one piano lessons, and cater for all ages and abilities.
Days are TBC for 26/26
€330 per term
Flute Lessons
Please get in touch for days & times
Build repertoire and technique while exploring the beautiful melodies written for this woodwind instrument.
Fees & Exams
€330 per term
Exams provided through several syllabi
Our Shows
Every year our students get to showcase their talents. We pride ourselves on high quality performances, with dazzling costumes. Students put the skills they have been learning to use as they wow audiences with their confidence, growth and
Recital
Yearly Music and Speech performances
Concert
Bi-yearly display of the talents of our group classes
Show
Bi-yearly Musical Theatre production
External performances
Hallowe'en Fest and Cathedral Carol Service
Important Information
FEES
Fees are payable in advance of each term. Invoices are processed through our registration system and emailed. Payments are online only.
UNIFORM
We have a uniform for all our classes, and it is mandatory for all students to wear them.
Please see the uniform section above for details and links
FAQ
Do classes run in the summer?
Dwan Academy follows the school year. The final term finishes at the end of May.
Does my child need to bring anything to class?
For one to one lessons and drama classes students should bring a folder.
For our dance classes they need to bring their shoes in a labelled bag and a labelled bottle of water.
We ask that they do not bring any personal items with them.
Tell me about the performance opportunities
Our stage school does one big production at the end of every second year, as well as the Hallowe'en Fest, the Cathedral Carol Service, and the St. Patricks Day Parade every year.
Our Hip Hop, Drama, & Boys classes host an ever growing concert at the end of every other year. They also regularly take part in the St. Patrick's Day Parade.
We write all our own shows ensuring that the content is age appropriate, and everybody gets their chance to shine. All classes operate on a group basis ensuring the learn the art of the chorus before they get parts.
Our Speech & Drama and Instrumental students will have recital opportunities during the year.
How will my child develop?
Every student will develop their skills at a different pace. We at Dwan Academy are committed to each child getting the most they can out of their classes, and our overall aim is building confidence and having fun.
What should my child wear to class?
We have a uniform because it means we can better identify alignment & posture, to be better able to ensure the safety of the children, and so that our work can look clean and polished.
Each class has a uniform. Please see the relevant section of the website. Shoes are the most important part of each uniform so please ensure you have the correct shoes for each class.
Uniform must be purchased before coming to class. Any child without a uniform will not be permitted to join the class.
What will my child be doing every week?
Our group classes will begin with a warm up, learn technical exercises, and work on repertoire for the next performance or exam.
Our one to one lessons will follow a similar pattern but will provide individualised feedback
When will my child move up to the next class?
Students will usually spend three years in each group. Teachers may decide to move them up earlier, or choose to keep them a year longer. This is to ensure the students are getting the most they can out of the classes, and that they are developing at their own pace.
What's your policy on child protection?
Dwan Academy is committed to protecting all of the young people in our care. A copy of our Child Protection Policy Guidelines is available at the bottom of the website.
Photographs taken within the school are done so in a controlled environment and in a safe manner. These photographs are only used for PR purposes for our website, our social media pages and for publication in local newspapers. If you do not wish your child to feature in photographs please contact us.
Do you offer a trial class?
Yes, we now offer trials for all our group classes. However we believe that students should really try a an activity for a term to truly experience it.
Can you tell me more about exams?
Exams are an option for most of our classes. They are not mandatory for any of our disciplines.
The Stage School, and Drama classes operate group exams. Speech and Drama and Instrumental lessons facilitate individual exams.
Why are you more expensive than the other groups?
At Dwan Academy all our staff are professionals in their field, and are constantly upskilling. We have our own studios designed with all our classes in mind.
There are no hidden charges after fees are paid. All costumes, extra rehearsals, and show costs are included. Group exam fees are included. The only extra cost is the ticket for our end of year show, and individual exam fees.
My child wants to do the stage school but doesn't want to do singing
Studying Musical Theatre involves training to become a triple threat, being equally confident at singing, dancing and acting. Being able to adapt to all three will make you a better performer. From dancing you will get strength, poise and rhythm, from acting you will get character building, adaptability and the ability to speak in public, and from singing you will get musicality, ability to work in a group and confidence in your voice. All three disciplines are intertwined and make for a better all round performer.
Everything in our classes is done as a group until reaching the senior class meaning that no-one is put under pressure, or singled out until they are ready.
My child is really shy
No problem! All our staff are well equipped to integrate even the most shy of children into our classes. We operate a buddy up system, either with an older student or with a fellow newbie to help our newer students be more comfortable with their new experience.
Get in touch
We would love to welcome you to one of our many fun classes. If you have any questions, please just ask! Complete the short form and we'll be in touch asap. Alternatively if you prefer to chat then please call Therese on 085 1654 854
STAFF
Therese Maher
Artistic Director
Therese holds a B.A. in Music (Mary Immaculate College), a diploma in Event Management (Limerick Business School), and a post-graduate in Stage Management and Technical Theatre (Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama). In 2018 she graduated with a M.F.A in Performance through American College Dublin, and is currently a PhD candidate in Drama and Theatre Studies in Mary Immaculate college.
For 16 years Therese has run Dwan Academy Performing Arts School in Thurles, providing music, drama, dance and art classes and lessons, as well as outreach programmes in schools, and now runs The Encore Studio Space, a purpose-built performing arts facility in Thurles. She was the Association of Irish Musical Societies adjudicator for the 24/25 and 25/26 seasons.
She works as a freelance director / choreographer across Ireland. As a Production Manager she has worked all over the world, including at Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Adelaide Fringe Festival, and at the Royal Albert Hall.
In 2023, Therese set up Limelight Theatricals, a youth musical theatre group. With an ethos of kindness and inclusion, they provide performance opportunities for 14-19 year olds.
Aoife Hennessy
Voice
Aoife earned a Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary and Applied Theatre Studies in 2022 from Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, and since then has been performing in Bunratty and Knappogue castles.
She has qualifications in Classical Singing, and Music Theory and achieved her Diploma LCM in Musical Theatre Singing with ABRSM. Aoife also her certificates in Communication and Speaking Verse and Prose. She is experienced in teaching all ages.
Eoin Ryan
Guitar & Ukulele
An experienced guitar player, Eoin is the front man for Seskin Lane, a Thurles based band who have played such gigs as Electric Picnic and Féile. The band hosts a yearly gig in The Source Arts Centre, encouraging other young local acts to partake, and promoting the local music scene. Eoin was previously a member of the band The Rumours, who released several singles.
As well as playing the guitar since he was fifteen, he also plays mandolin, banjo and tin whistle. Eoin has a great love of traditional music and often joins the sessions at the infamous Jim of the Mills. He has been teaching for a number years, and has a great passion for passing on his skills and encouraging musicality and the enjoyment of playing.
James O'Meara Ryan
Guitar, Ukulele, & Banjo
James is a crossover Irish musician from Thurles. Having originally started his musical career on the Electric Guitar, he moved to acoustic and Roots/Crossover genres. An avid traditional player he won the Bank of Ireland Student of the Year award 2013 – for services to Music in Secondary school and was also awarded the North Tipperary VEC award in Music.
James is lead guitarist and vocalist for Strings and Things, a contemporary Irish Trad / Folk/ Roots crossover band playing Irish songs, airs and traditional pieces presented in a contemporary style.
Vera Ryan
Piano
Vera’s passion for music began at the age of seven when she first started learning piano. Throughout her childhood she was involved in various local musical productions and pantomimes. She attended the Ursuline Secondary School Thurles, where she was a member of the Cecilian choir and played percussion with the Senior Orchestra. Vera is currently studying Law and German in the University of Limerick. In addition to piano, she also plays guitar. She completed her Senior Certificate in piano in 2023.
Therese and her fantastic team of staff obviously thoroughly enjoy teaching the children, because they teach with such enthusiasm and passion, and it is fantastic to see the children receiving such praise and encouragement whilst having fun.
My children currently or have had varying levels of involvement at the Dwan Academy in a variety of classes including Speech & Drama, Singing, Piano, Guitar, Drums, Dancing and Theatre School. The environment created by Therese and her talented and professional team is at ALL times positive and enjoyable for all. They create and environment of kindness, acceptance and inclusivity which is more and more difficult to find for our young people. My children LOVE their time there, they manage to be professional AND a whole lot of fun for the kids involved
The end of year show is always fantastic, and my two children can't wait to get on stage each year.