New collaboration to introduce thousands of families to performing arts while supporting franchise growth across the UK
Stagecoach Performing Arts has announced an exclusive new partnership with Parkdean Resorts, the UK’s largest holiday park operator, bringing performing arts experiences to thousands of families across the country and creating new opportunities for growth across its franchise network.
The partnership will see Stagecoach deliver drama, dance and singing workshops for children and young people aged 2–18 at 19 Parkdean Resorts holiday parks nationwide. Designed to inspire confidence, creativity and self-expression, the initiative will extend Stagecoach’s reach beyond its existing school network and introduce the brand to new audiences in communities across the UK.
Two programmes will be available through the partnership: Stagecoach Mini Stages for children aged 2–5 and Musical Theatre with Stagecoach for children and young people aged 6–18. Each 90-minute session will provide participants with the opportunity to develop new skills, build confidence and experience the excitement of performing arts, culminating in a live stage performance. Every participant will receive a bespoke Stagecoach @ Parkdean Resorts T-shirt and certificate.
Stagecoach Mini Stages will also feature as part of Parkdean Resorts’ popular Tots Breaks programme, offering complimentary sessions for families with younger children and further increasing access to performing arts experiences.
The partnership represents a significant strategic opportunity for Stagecoach. With Parkdean Resorts welcoming more than three million holidaymakers annually, the collaboration is expected to introduce large numbers of families to the Stagecoach brand, helping to strengthen awareness and support student recruitment opportunities for local franchisees.
Chase Demmers, Head of Events and Partnerships at Stagecoach Performing Arts, said: “We’re delighted to be launching this partnership with Parkdean Resorts. Their success in collaborating with recognised family brands gives us great confidence in the potential of this initiative. It provides an exciting opportunity for children and young people to experience performing arts during their holidays while discovering everything Stagecoach has to offer.
He added: “Holidays are a perfect time to try something new. Combined with our commitment to helping young people develop Creative Courage for Life in a safe, supportive environment, these workshops will make performing arts more accessible to families across the UK.”
Pete Stedman, National Head of On Park Experience at Parkdean Resorts, said: “Our partnership with Stagecoach Performing Arts represents a valuable addition to the family entertainment experience across our parks. Guests increasingly seek high-quality, engaging activities during their stay, and Stagecoach’s reputation for delivering fun, confidence-building experiences makes them an ideal partner. Through Mini Stages and Musical Theatre with Stagecoach, we’re creating even more opportunities for children to learn new skills and make lasting holiday memories.”
Lisa Stead, CEO of Stagecoach Performing Arts, added: “This partnership reflects the strength of the Stagecoach brand and the exciting opportunities available across our franchise network. By bringing Stagecoach into a new environment, we’re creating additional opportunities for families to experience the confidence, creativity and sense of belonging our schools foster every week. At the same time, we’re strengthening awareness of Stagecoach in communities nationwide, supporting our franchisees and introducing more children to the benefits of performing arts education. Finding innovative ways to expand our reach and inspire the next generation remains a key priority, and this partnership is a fantastic example of that ambition in action.”
The programme will be available on selected dates at 19 Parkdean Resorts holiday parks across England, Wales and Scotland, including Camber Sands, Trecco Bay, Newquay, Torquay, Southview and Sandy Bay.
The collaboration forms part of Stagecoach Performing Arts’ wider strategy to create new opportunities for children and young people to engage with performing arts while supporting sustainable growth across its international franchise network.
