We are Shockout
About us
What is Shockout?
Shockout takes immense pride in being a beacon of quality training in Manchester, offering a comprehensive array of courses meticulously designed to empower aspiring artists. Our intensive programs are crafted to guide individuals through a transformative journey, enabling them to discover and nurture their unique creative talents.
Our team comprises highly qualified and diverse industry experts, reflecting our dedication to providing an environment that nurtures creativity and individuality. At Shockout, we inspire students to explore and fully embrace their artistic potential.
Whether your aspiration is a BTEC qualification, an undergraduate degree, or postgraduate studies, Shockout caters to students at every stage of their educational journey. Our courses span diverse genres, including Professional Commercial Dance, Street and Hip Hop, and Musical Theatre. Join us to immerse yourself in a world of creativity, where your passion and potential can flourish.
We are an Accredited Centre of Excellence.
Our Approach
Vision
Our vision at Shockout is to cultivate a generation of passionate, determined, and versatile artists — equipped with both technical mastery and a holistic skill set that enables them to confidently realise their creative aspirations. We strive to be a leading hub of artistic innovation and longevity, where graduates are prepared not just to enter the industry, but to shape its future — leaving a lasting legacy of excellence, adaptability and creative leadership.
We envision:
- Artists who are career-ready, confident and resilient in a fast-evolving global arts landscape.
- A thriving community where creative exploration, mentorship and collaboration drive artistic growth.
- A legacy of graduates whose work influences culture, performance, and creative thinking on both national and international stages.
Ethos
At Shockout, we are dedicated to nurturing raw talent, individuality and artistic excellence within a dynamic, inclusive environment. Our ethos centres on delivering practical, industry-driven training that empowers individuals to express creativity, build technical skill, and develop their unique artistic voice. We champion a culture where every student — regardless of background or ability — is given equal opportunity to grow, explore and thrive. Through immersive programmes and real-world creative platforms, we inspire confidence and prepare artists to pursue lasting, impactful careers in the performing arts.
Key principles of our ethos include:
- Creativity & Individuality: Encouraging bold expression and personal artistic identity.
- Practical, Professional Training: Real-world focus with curriculum shaped by industry trends.
- Inclusivity: Equal opportunity for all, championing diversity in art and education.
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Supportive Community: A culture where collaboration, wellbeing and student voice enrich learning.
The History of Shockout
From its humble beginnings as a Saturday school in Liverpool, Shockout’s evolution has seen a premises move to Manchester’s City centre, to accommodate its full times courses, where aspiring and passionate students can train and thrive in an environment conducive to creative and intellectual development.
We believe it is our professional duty of care to provide the greatest platform possible for aspiring dancers in the 21st century through longstanding links with organisations and employers in industry throughout the United Kingdom and internationally. Furthermore, by making dance training accessible to those who deserve a chance if it’s their passion, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or financial background.
Health & Wellbeing
Shockout is committed to the long-term health and career longevity of our young dancers. Through an on-site student support team and access to healthcare professionals within leading sector organisations, we will empower you to enhance your performance.