The Secret Garden

Hi Gemma & Gary Sarah Byrne Acting Academy Celebrates 10 Years of Homegrown Talent in Uppermill FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sarah Byrne Acting Academy Celebrates 10 Years of Homegrown Talent Oldham, UK, January 2026, Oldham’s own Shameless and The Apprentice star Sarah Byrne has launched a new performing arts academy aimed at giving young people from Oldham and across Greater Manchester a clear pathway into the creative industries. Oldham’s own Shameless and The Apprentice star Sarah Byrne, 36, from Lees, set up the academy to support performers aged five to 25, inspired by her desire to give back to the community and act as a role model for her daughter, Sadie. The academy now attracts students from across Greater Manchester, as well as from the Isle of Man and the North East.Sarah Byrne Acting Academy is celebrating 10 incredible years of nurturing young talent in film and television acting. Since its launch, the academy has provided children in the area with a place to learn, grow, and shine on both screen and stage. The academy has produced stars like Harley Hamilton (Emmerdale’s Oscar, Charity’s grandson), who now works as Assistant Director alongside Sarah Byrne, Eryn Hall, who is set to star in a new BBC series and Phoebe Weston, who is also featured in a new film due to air this year. Many alumni have gone on to feature in further film and television projects or continue their studies at prestigious institutions including Manchester University Drama, LIPA, and The Hammond School. “There is incredible talent right here in our community, young people just need someone to believe in them and open the door,” said Sarah Byrne. “Seeing local children move on to places like LIPA and The Hammond makes every bit of hard work worth it.” Said Sue Burns. The academy operates from Positive Steps in Oldham and the Manchester Maccabi Community and Sports Club in Prestwich, ensuring training remains accessible and firmly rooted in local communities. To celebrate its anniversary, the academy’s next production, The Secret Garden, will be staged at Uppermill Civic Hall in January 2026. The production continues the academy’s commitment to using local venues and reinvesting in the Oldham community. Join us in celebrating a decade of dreams, talent, and creativity and all from the heart of Oldham. Media Contact: Sue Burns Producer at Sarah Byrne Acting Academy Sarah Byrne Acting Academy 07803230999 [email protected] www.sarahbyrneactingacademy.co.uk Many thanks Sue Burns Academy Executive Talent Director SBM Agency www.sarahbyrneactingacademy.co.uk www.sbmagency.co.uk [email protected] Sue Private: 07803230999