A free five-day theatre school is being held in Deal at Easter.

It is being run by Lizzie Chittenden and takes place at the Astor Theatre from Tuesday, April 7, until Saturday, April 11, culminating in a performance on the theatre’s stage, as well as out in the streets of Deal.

Mum of two Lizzie, 33, said: “They will participate in different workshops like acting, dance, script writing and singing.”

The course is for 13 to 16- year-olds. On the Saturday there will be street theatre and, if Lizzie can get permission, a dance or performance will take place on Deal Pier.

Lizzie, of London Road, makes up part of a well known creative family. One brother George is an author, another, Charlie, is an artist and performer and her father Pete is a musician who can be seen driving his hand-made cart around town with his grandchildren inside.

“Theatre teaches about social skills, confidence and building friendships and networks” - Lizzie Chittenden

Coming from such a creative hub it was natural she would follow suit, and Lizzie studied for a degree in performing arts at London Metropolitan University. She taught at Canterbury College and Barton Court Grammar School, in Canterbury and has recently performed in CorDomus’s production of the Vagina Monologues at the Lighthouse pub on Valentine’s Day evening.

She particularly enjoys working with youngsters in the 13 to 16 range, because they’re “just learning about life and what they want to go on and do when they leave school”.

She said: “Theatre teaches about social skills, confidence and building friendships and networks.”

From the encouragement of Deal business owner Carol Austin of One to One in the High Street, Lizzie has secured £1,100 funding from the Cyril Malyon Memorial Fund, a charity that was set up to remember Mrs Austin’s former teacher.

The cash pays for the rent of the Astor and Lizzie’s fee, enabling the course to be offered free of charge for the 13-16s that go.

The themes will be upbeat, not focusing on a particular social class or age specific issues that youngsters face. She wants it to be a positive and inspiring course that will enable confidence – and ideally a love of theatre – to grow. She said: “I’ve got a particular interest in site-specific theatre, doing performances in places other than theatres. It’s ideal for people of all abilities including beginners.

“No previous experience necessary... however we do require you to arrive on time every day with a smile.”

• Lizzie’s free five-day theatre school is called EX/SITE, taking place from Tuesday, April 7, until Saturday, April 11 from 10am until 3pm. She has space for up to 20 youngsters. Emaillizziechittenden@yahoo.co.uk to book a space