We believe every child deserves a stage.
Noodle Performance Arts exists because performing arts should be for everyone — not just the naturally gifted, not just those chasing trophies, and not just the kids whose parents can afford expensive uniforms and exam fees. We believe that when children are given the freedom to move, create, and express themselves, something genuinely magical happens. That’s what Noodle is here for.
Our Story - Short history of Noodle...
Noodle was born in Sheffield in 2011, when founder and managing director Nikki Johnson noticed a gap that nobody was filling. Plenty of young people wanted to dance, act, and sing — but the traditional route felt rigid, expensive, and intimidating. So Nikki did something about it.
Starting with a small performing arts class for preschool children at Beighton Lifestyle Centre, Nikki built something different from the ground up: high-quality teaching wrapped in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where ability didn’t determine worth, and fun was always the point. Within a year, that approach had earned Noodle the Netmums award for best preschool classes in Sheffield.
More than a decade on, Noodle now runs classes across Sheffield, Rotherham, and beyond — with a growing network of venues, schools, nurseries, and holiday clubs. The spirit, though, hasn’t changed a bit.
Our Mission
To inspire children to find their voice — through movement, music, and imagination — in an environment where every child belongs.
We measure success not in exam grades, but in the moment a shy child takes their first bow, a nervous tot finds their rhythm, or a teenager discovers they can hold a stage. Those are the moments we work for.
The Why Behind What We Do
Most children are fearless — throwing themselves into things without overthinking or worrying what others think. That instinct deserves to be nurtured, not knocked out of them by pressure and perfectionism.
Performing arts do something few other activities can match. They build confidence, self-expression, and emotional intelligence — teaching children to listen, collaborate, and recover from risk. They’re not just about performance. They’re about becoming.
But for too long, that experience has been gatekept by cost, competition, and convention. Noodle was created to change that — to build something any family could walk into and feel immediately at home, regardless of background, budget, or experience.
That’s the why. Everything else flows from it.
What We Do
Noodle offers a broad range of classes, clubs, and experiences designed to meet children at every age and stage:
Classes & Programmes – Our weekly classes span performing arts, ballet, street dance, acting, and singing. From Ballet Tots and Noodle Tots for the very young, through to the NPA Academy for older and more committed students — there’s a place for every child in the Noodle family.
Schools & Nurseries – We bring Noodle into the classroom with bespoke performing arts programmes, after-school clubs, educational workshops, and PPA cover — helping schools enrich their offering without adding to teacher workloads.
Holiday Clubs – When term ends, the fun doesn’t. Noodle holiday clubs keep creativity alive throughout the school year with packed, energetic programmes that children genuinely look forward to.
Shows & Performances – From tots to teenagers, our shows are the highlight of the Noodle year. Watching a child perform on stage — knowing their own lines, working with their peers, giving it everything — is something families and teachers talk about long after the curtain falls.
Children’s Parties – We bring the Noodle magic to birthdays and celebrations too, with themed party packages including princess, pirate, pirate & princess combinations, and fully bespoke events — all designed to make a child’s special day truly unforgettable.
NPA Theatreworks – Our dedicated production arm gives students the chance to work on larger-scale theatrical projects, pushing their craft and their confidence to the next level.
Our Values
Inclusion first. Every child is welcome here, regardless of experience, ability, or background. We don’t audition for acceptance.
Fun is not optional. Children learn best when they’re enjoying themselves. We never lose sight of that.
Confidence over perfection. We’re not here to produce perfect performers. We’re here to help children believe in themselves.
Community matters. Noodle is more than a class — it’s a community of children, families, and teachers who genuinely care about each other.
Quality without pressure. Our teaching standards are high, but our environment is warm and supportive. Excellence and enjoyment are not opposites.
Come and See for Yourself
Book a free taster session today, or get in touch with the team to find out more.