Principal of CCTS and CCTC
Drama Specialist & LAMDA Coach
Richard Marquiss
Richard started performing from the age of 12 in his home town of Lancashire, gaining a scholarship to attend the Millington’s Dance Academy. At the age of 20 Richard swapped the northern air for the big smoke to train further.
Since graduating Richmond Drama School in 2008 Richard has performed in many UK touring theatre shows including pantomimes, classical literature and family stage shows. He has appeared in music videos he has been fortunate enough to play the leading role of the Old Lady, in the national theatre tour of 'There was an old lady who swallowed a fly'. Richard has also featured in commercials for 'The London Dungeons' and McDonalds and many more. When he’s not acting Richard loves nothing more than passing his knowledge on to fellow aspiring little actors. Being a drama teacher is extremely rewarding and fulfilling and he couldn't think of having a better job.
Back in 2013 Richard decided it was time to take a break from the industry to set up and run the Holiday camps, along with our sister company Candice Conway Theatre School. It was definitely the best decision, as he loves nothing more than helping children chase their dreams.
April 2013 Candice and Richard had a crazy idea to start a summer camp, but not just any ordinary camp! A camp where the leaders would have just as much fun as the children, because a happy environment where everyone is having fun is a great place to be. A chance for the children to experience fun actives that many other camps didn't offer. Candice has an abundance of experience working for many camps over the years and she felt they lacked the personal touch. This is why we pride our selves on staying in touch with parents and giving them that little bit more. The camp took off with such a bang we are here many years later. April 2016 the Candice Conway Theatre Camps, became officially registered as an Ofsted registered child care service. July 2018 saw our first Ofsted inspection gaining us an “OUTSTANDING” in ALL areas. We were totally blown away and still until today we shall continue to strive to improve by going above and beyond in our duty of care.
We owe our thanks to our very own holiday camp parents, who in 2014 encouraged us to open as a school and run weekly musical theatre classes. From this the Candice Conway Theatre School was born. When Candice and Richard opened their theatre school September 2014 it was their dream, to teach, encourage, and inspire young children from all social backgrounds. In a short period of time we have grown from just a handful to over 400 children and we are still growing. Offering workshop opportunities in schools and nurseries.
We proudly and actively support great Ormond street hospital, a charity close to our hearts. Who through our fund raising activities such as our holiday camps and Theatre School shows have benefitted. The hospital does tremendous work and need everyone's support to offer the very best care to children and their families. You will find various collection boxes in the foyer area. Any donations would be warmly welcomed.
Candice, Richard and the team would just like to thank our loyal holiday camp parents who are either returning again for another year of fun or to those who have just shared and spread the word. Your help doesn’t go unnoticed so thank you from all of us!
Richard is a fully qualified paediatric first aider and safeguarding lead.
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FAQs
What do we need to bring to class?
Please bring a bottle of water, appropriate dance shoes and the correct uniform. You can purchase these from our shop.
What should we wear to class?
Appropriate grooming and correct uniform is essential to training the highest standards of technique within each dance style. Therefore, all students will be expected to purchase the correct uniform. All students must wear our theatre school t-shirt, black leggings, black tracksuit bottoms or Jazz pants and Jazz shoes. Uniform can be purchased from our online uniform shop. This can be delivered straight to your door.
Can parents stay and watch the classes?
We have a strict no parent policy, unless previously discussed or parents have been invited to attend our end of term showcase watching day. We feel it is important for students to gain independence in order for their confidence to grow.
Do I have to wait whilst the class is running?
There is no need to wait around unless you would like too, all venues have waiting areas. We have all emergency contact details to hand so please feel free to run errands, relax and have some time to yourself!
What will my child be working towards?
Here at CCTS we are proud to be able to offer our students multiple opportunities to perform. Including charity events, showcase watching days, promotional opportunities and our yearly Summer show at the Radlett Centre held in July. If your child attends our LAMDA sessions then they will take a yearly exam at LAMDA itself in order to reach the next grade.
Do I need to fill out a contact form before my child attends the class?
You will need to fill in an online booking form prior to attending the class.