Blackheath Conservatoire has made the decision to cut Drama from its curriculum. This means that drama classes, including Blackheath Community Theatre, will no longer be offered.

This is a gigantic loss to Blackheath, to South East London and to us, the students, who have found a home at The Conservatoire.

Blackheath Community Theatre and the Drama programme has been a safe space, a warm and loving community and a haven for anyone who felt different, marginalised or excluded. For our children, the programme has helped them find their confidence and unique voices at a crucial age. As adults, many of us have been coming to the Conservatoire for years. We have made lifelong friends, meaningful connections and fostered a love for our local community. 

We feel strongly that this decision not only damages the local culture and life but also is a clear failure of The Conservatoire to meet its stated Mission - "to be the home of creativity for people in South East London, of all abilities and backgrounds, seeking excellent learning in music, art and drama." 

The Board Conservatoire took this decision without consultation, and without taking the time to get to know the student community or learn what the drama programme is all about. At a time when huge cuts are being made to the Arts for grossly commercial reasons, rather than investing in the community, we cannot believe that The Conservatoire has chosen to take drama - one of the most popular and powerful Art forms there is - away from its students. 

We would like to invite The Conservatoire's Board to reconsider their decision and to reinstate the drama programme and Blackheath Community Theatre.

Please join us in showing The Conservatoire that drama is an essential part of the curriculum - and help us save Blackheath Community Theatre!