Make Believe Stevenage is a local performing arts school that focuses on singing, dancing, and acting. The group is all about helping children build confidence and express themselves through the love of performance. Hannah Tucker, a passionate primary school teacher, has always dreamed of running a performing arts school. After seeing how much her own child benefited from a similar group, she knew it was the right time to bring Make Believe to Stevenage.
A Magical Musical Journey in June
On Sunday 8th June 2025, Make Believe Stevenage will be taking to the stage at Millfield Theatre in London for their upcoming production, The Magically Musical Time Machine. This exciting show will take the audience on a journey through different musical eras, featuring songs from legendary artists like Madonna, ABBA, The Beatles, Taylor Swift, and The Spice Girls.
The production was carefully chosen by Creative Product Director, Emma Dean, as a way for children to discover and enjoy classic hits while parents get to relive the music of their own childhoods. One young performer, Amelie Toyn, was even heard singing Blame It on the Boogie by The Jackson 5 at a restaurant after rehearsals—proving just how much the music is inspiring the children.
Dedicated Performers and Exciting Rehearsals
Auditions for the show were a memorable experience, with children arriving full of enthusiasm, bringing props, and showing off their talents. The dedication of the young performers is already shining through. One standout moment was when Elliott Wells, who plays Romantic Ronnie, took his script on holiday to practice his lines with his grandparents!
Rehearsals are now in full swing, with students working hard on their acting, singing, and dance choreography. Every child has been given a role, ensuring that all students feel included and valued in the production.
Encouraging Confidence and Growth
Make Believe Stevenage isn’t just about putting on shows—it’s about helping children grow in confidence. The team makes a real effort to understand each child’s strengths and areas for improvement. Their dedicated teachers, including Molly Prutton (dance), Kelcie Beyioku (singing), Charlotte Easby (drama), and Priya Hills (all-round performing arts specialist), are passionate about guiding and supporting every student.
To help children feel comfortable performing, Make Believe Stevenage organises small in-house performances, takes part in local events like the Stevenage Christmas light switch-on, and encourages weekly performances in front of peers. This gradual approach helps build resilience and self-assurance.
Transforming Lives Through Theatre
Many children have shown remarkable transformations since joining Make Believe Stevenage. Some who were once too nervous to enter the room without a parent now run in eagerly, ready to take part. Others with special educational needs or social anxiety have found a welcoming space where they feel safe, confident, and able to express themselves.
Overcoming Challenges in the Performing Arts
One of the biggest challenges of running a children’s drama group is finding the right teachers, especially as many of them are also professional performers. At times, cover is needed at short notice, but having teachers who are still actively involved in the industry brings valuable experience to the students. For example, Emily Baker, a senior group member, is performing in Rare Productions – Sleeping Beauty, and dance teacher Molly Prutton, a Stevenage local, has shared her own experiences performing with Rare Productions.
A Supportive and Joyful Community
For the founder of Make Believe Stevenage, the most rewarding part of running the group is watching the children grow—not just in skill, but in confidence and friendships. From shy infants to confident seniors, every child is encouraged to be themselves in a supportive and uplifting environment.
Get Your Tickets!
Make Believe Stevenage’s production of The Magically Musical Time Machine promises to be a fun-filled show for all ages. Support the performers and enjoy a fantastic afternoon of music by getting your tickets now:
🎟 Book Tickets Here
📅 Sunday 8th June 2025, 3pm
📍 Millfield Theatre, London
Don’t miss out on this incredible journey through music history with Stevenage’s talented young performers!
Make Believe Stevenage are also offering a free trial so that you can experience the love of performing arts for yourselves. You can register for this at www.makebelievegroup.co.uk
