intensive summer schools 2026
Abú! Performing Arts is running two summer schools this year in the amazing Claremorris Town Hall Theatre, giving young performers the chance to rehearse and stage a full musical production in just two weeks. Students work with experienced directors, choreographers and musical directors in a supportive, high-energy environment. No previous experience is required for either school.
matilda jr! - 6 to 13 year olds
Dates: Monday 6 to Friday 10 July and Monday 13 to Friday 17 July (weekdays only)
Times: 10am to 4pm daily. Wraparound care from 9-10 and 4-5 available at additional cost
Performance: Friday 17 July (evening)
Venue: Claremorris Town Hall Theatre
Fee: €300 per student (20% sibling discount available)
A two-week summer school for primary and early secondary students, culminating in a fully staged production of Roald Dahl's Matilda Jr. Students will develop skills in acting, singing and movement, with parts assigned through friendly auditions on the first day. Audition pieces will be sent to all enrolled students in advance so everyone can prepare at home.
This school is ideal for first-timers as well as returning students. All abilities are welcome.
bugsy malone - 13 to 18 year olds
Dates: Tuesday 4 to Saturday 8 August and Monday 10 to Friday 14 August
Times: 10am to 4pm daily. Wraparound care from 9-10 and 4-5 available at additional cost
Performances: Friday 14 August (evening) and Saturday 15 August (evening), with a possible Saturday matinée (TBC)
Venue: Claremorris Town Hall Theatre
Fee:€320 per student (20% sibling discount available)
A two-week summer school for secondary students, staging a full-length production of Bugsy Malone with live band. This is a bigger commitment and a brilliant opportunity for students who want to push themselves. Auditions will take place in July (date to be confirmed) ahead of the school, and students will need to be familiar with their material before rehearsals begin.
Please note: the first week of this school runs Tuesday to Saturday rather than the usual Monday to Friday. Please check these dates carefully before booking.
Some prior experience in performing arts is helpful but not essential. If your child is keen and willing to put in the work, they'll thrive here.
What to expect
Both summer schools follow a similar structure. Here's a rough idea of how the two weeks work.
Week one is about getting started: learning songs, blocking scenes, exploring characters and building choreography. Students are on their feet from day one. For Matilda Jr, auditions happen on the first morning, so there's excitement straight away.
Week two brings it all together. Rehearsals become more intensive as the company works toward the final production. By mid-week, students are running full scenes with costumes, lighting and sound. The last day (or days, for Bugsy Malone) is all about the show.
Students should come prepared to work hard and have fun. They'll need comfortable clothes they can move in, a water bottle, and a packed lunch. Full details on what to bring, drop-off and pick-up times, and any materials to prepare will be sent to all parents in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need experience to take part? No. Both schools welcome complete beginners. Matilda Jr in particular is designed to be accessible to younger students who may never have been on stage before. For Bugsy Malone, some familiarity with singing or acting is helpful but not a requirement.
How are parts assigned? For Matilda Jr, auditions take place on the first morning of the school. Audition material will be sent in advance so your child can practise at home. For Bugsy Malone, auditions are held in July before the school starts - date TBC. This is because it's a full-length show with band, and students need time to learn their parts before rehearsals begin.
Why does the Bugsy Malone school start on a Tuesday? The August school runs Tuesday 4 to Saturday 8 August in the first week, then Monday to Friday in the second week. This is to accommodate the bank holiday on Monday 3 August. Please double-check these dates work for your family before booking.
Can I book more than one child? Yes. A 20% sibling discount applies to both schools. The discount will be applied to the second (and any subsequent) child's fee.
How do payments work? A deposit secures your child's place. The balance (total fee less deposit) is due by Sunday 28 June. We'll send payment links for the balance to all enrolled families before that date.
What if places are full? Places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Once a school is full, we can add your child to a waiting list. Book early to avoid disappointment.
Where is the venue? Both schools take place in Claremorris Town Hall Theatre, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.
I have another question. Get in touch at hello@abuperformingarts.ie and we'll be happy to help.