If your child loves storytelling, performing or using their imagination, The Actors Studio Academy @ klpac (TAS Academy) offers one of Malaysia’s longest-running and most respected performing arts programmes for children and teenagers. Based at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac) in Sentul, the academy has been nurturing young performers for over 30 years through professionally designed courses in speech, drama and theatre arts. Founded by renowned theatre practitioners Dato’ Dr. Faridah Merican and Joe Hasham OAM, TAS Academy has helped generations of students develop confidence, creativity and communication skills through the performing arts.

The academy’s flagship Speech & Drama programme welcomes children from 3 to 18 years old, with classes divided into Pre-School (3–6 years) and Primary & Youth (7–18 years) pathways. Rather than focusing solely on acting, students explore storytelling, poetry, dialogue, improvisation, movement, music and character development through interactive theatre games and performance exercises. Lessons encourage children to express themselves, collaborate with others and develop confidence in speaking before an audience.

One of the academy’s distinguishing features is its multi-level learning approach, where new and returning students often learn together. This creates a collaborative environment where younger or less experienced students can learn from their peers while progressing at their own pace. Instead of rigid examinations, the emphasis is on creative exploration, communication and building performance skills through hands-on experience. Throughout the year, students also work towards showcases and productions, giving them the opportunity to perform on a professional stage at klpac.

Beyond its year-long speech and drama programmes, TAS Academy also offers school holiday workshops, acting courses, K-Pop dance classes and other performing arts workshops, allowing children to explore different creative interests throughout the year. Whether your child dreams of performing on stage or simply needs a safe environment to build confidence and communication skills, TAS Academy provides an inspiring place where creativity can flourish.

Why Parents Like TAS Academy

🎭 One of Malaysia’s most established performing arts academies

🗣️ Develops confidence through speech, drama and storytelling

🎬 Learn acting, improvisation, movement and stage performance

🌟 Opportunities to perform on a professional theatre stage at klpac

👩‍🏫 Taught by experienced theatre practitioners and artiste-educators

🎨 Holiday workshops and creative programmes throughout the year

Best For

  • Children aged 3–18 years
  • Kids who enjoy storytelling, acting and performing
  • Shy children looking to build confidence
  • Students interested in theatre and public speaking
  • Families seeking creative arts enrichment
  • Teens considering a future in the performing arts

Skills Children Develop

  • Public speaking and verbal communication
  • Acting and character development
  • Creativity and imagination
  • Confidence and stage presence
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Listening and improvisation
  • Emotional expression and empathy

Parent Tips

  • Children aged 3–6 years begin with the Pre-School Speech & Drama programme, while older students join age-appropriate Speech & Drama classes for ages 7–18.
  • The academy runs three semesters each year, making it easy to join at the beginning of a new intake.
  • Students regularly participate in end-of-semester showcases, giving them valuable experience performing in front of a live audience.
  • If your child is new to performing arts, look out for trial classes or school holiday workshops, which are a great introduction before committing to a full programme