Since 1967 we've been creating expertly planned school tours - helping groups get more from their time away...
English, Drama & Performing Arts school trips to New York
5 days from £675pp
You’ll find all the excitement your group can handle on Broadway. By booking a great value package with NST, you’re guaranteed the perfect mix of shows, workshops and leisure at fantastic group prices. Hundreds of students travel with us each year to develop practical drama skills, and savour the delights of the Big Apple.
- Itinerary
- Visits
- Accommodation
- Eating Out
- Support
- Resources
Below, you’ll find an example of one of our most popular itinerary choices, but we can tailor-make yours from scratch to meet your exact requirements...
New York - 5 days from £675pp*
Travelling in February 2013. Price includes return flights (all taxes & charges included), airport transfers to & from accommodation, 3 nights room-only accommodation at Vanderbilt YMCA, extensive group travel insurance and a generous free place ratio of 1 in 10.
And then add our most popular itinerary package below for £115pp*
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| *Price shown based on 25 paying passengers departing in February 2013 from a London airport & is subject to availablility. Flight supplements may apply. Entrance fees for some of the visits featured may be payable locally, but are included in the price shown. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Our Most Popular Visits in New York for School Theatre & Drama Trips
Here are some of our most popular visits in New York for English, Drama, Theatre and Performing Arts groups. We can tailor-make an itinerary to your exact needs. Call 0845 688 8988 to create your itinerary from scratch today.
Broadway Theatre Productions
Our ability to deliver the best value tickets for the very best shows, even in times of high demand, makes us the number one choice for Broadway theatre visits. Our dedicated in-house theatre team and links with the best New York ticket agencies means we’ll be able to reserve your first choice tickets.
Our most popular shows for English, Drama, Theatre and Performing Arts groups include:
Wicked
The untold musical story of The Wizard of Oz’s Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good... before Dorothy dropped in. Wicked takes a fantasy journey through the unseen side of Oz, sharing a tale of unexpected friendship and love. ‘‘The most complete, and completely satisfying, musical I’ve come across in a long time’’
Memphis
Set in the turbulent south in the 1950s, Memphis is the story of Huey Calhoun, a white radio DJ whose love of good music transcends race lines and airwaves. “Take a deep breath as the curtain rises because the exuberance doesn’t stop.”
Sister Act
When disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in one place the cops are sure she won’t be a found: a convent! “Strong, funny and touching, this is more enjoyable on-stage than it was on the big screen”
War Horse
War Horse uses puppetry to tell the story of young Albert and his beloved horse, Joey, who is sent to war. “Brilliantly captures not only the mysterious and intense relationship that can exist between humans and animals, but also the dreadful waste and terror of the Great War”.
More popular Broadway theatre productions include:
Mamma Mia!
The show has full-on, high-energy to spare, with periodic breaks for ballads and drama. In three words? Fun. Fun. Fun.
Chicago
Packed with hits, this show tells the story of Roxie Hart, and her battle to escape death row after shooting her lover.
The Lion King
The Lion King pulses with an award winning score and innovative puppetry to bring this classic story to vivid life.
Jersey Boys
Winner of the 2006 Tony Award for Best Musical, Jersey Boys tells the story of how Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons went from being unknown New Jersey kids to international pop superstars.
Billy Elliot
(2009 Tony Award Winner for Best Musical) - Based on the critically acclaimed feature film and brought to life on stage by the movie’s original creative team with the music created by Elton John.
The Addams Family
That lovable family of creepy kooks is alive and well and living in their super-spooky mansion in Central Park.
Spiderman - Turn Off the Dark
A new take on the mythical tale of a young man propelled from a modest rowhouse in Queens to the sky-scraping towers of NYC. With music from Bono and the Edge from U2.
The Phantom of the Opera
Set at the Paris opera house, a beautiful soprano becomes the obsession of a mysterious, disfigured musical genius.
Avenue Q
Tony-winning musical Avenue Q is the hilarious and heartfelt story. The actors remain visible at all times and mimic the action of their puppets, adding yet another level of humour.
American Idiot
American Idiot follows the exhilarating journey of a new generation of young Americans as they struggle to find meaning in a post-9/11 world, borne along by Green Day’s electrifying score.
Theatre Workshops
The Offstage Group Workshops
These spectacular theatre programmes are led by qualified Broadway professional instructors and based in central Manhattan. We can tailor any theatre workshop to a show you’re seeing, as well as your group’s age and ability.
Meet the Performer (1 Hour)
Enjoy a fascinating hour of performance and conversation with a leading artist from the Broadway show of your choice. Backstage anecdotes and personal stories will offer inspiration to your group, alongside a Q&A session. Classical, Opera and Jazz artists from the Lincoln Center, as well as guest artists from Film, Television or the Technical and Visual Creative Arts are also available.
Dance Workshop (1½ Hours)
Get into the Broadway ‘state-of-mind’ during this 90-minute clinic and learn an authentic Broadway song and dance combination with the help of a Broadway ‘triple threat’ (dancer, actor and singer) and a professional New York City vocal coach. Your group will rehearse and perfect the vocals and choreography to a classic Broadway routine. At the end of each clinic, students take part in a Q&A with the guest artist.
Tailored Workshop (1½ Hours)
Enjoy a 90-minute workshop tailored to the interest of your group. You’ll have the chance to design an event specifically for your group’s needs.
Audition Workshop (1½ Hours)
A Broadway performer or NYC casting director will discuss the audition process and offers tips and tactics based upon personal experience through hundreds of auditions. Hear first-hand stories and examples of their best and worst auditions. Participating in mock auditions, students receive valuable coaching. Includes Q&A.
Recording Studio Tour (1 Hour)
Your group will be divided into small sub groups for a hands-on behind the scenes tour of a professional recording studio. Students will meet music industry professionals who will explain the logistics of operating a recording studio, as well as their personal experiences within the industry. This is an ideal programme for students interested in a career in music.
Pre-Show or After-Show Cast Party
The show may be over but the night has just begun! Students will enjoy an hour-long cast party in a private area of a fun midtown restaurant, and meet cast members from the show you see. Includes a light buffet dinner. One cast member per 10 students.
New York Film Academy Interactive Sessions
The NYFA offer NST groups a fantastic opportunity to learn from exciting hands-on sessions designed around an area of film to suit your group’s studies. Sessions are from 2 hours to 4 hours in length. Your group will get hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment. Three example sessions include:
Digital Editing
Students get involved in shot selection and manipulation in this overview of film editing.
Digital Cinematography
Your group will create camera and lighting set-ups, then record and screen the footage for analysis and critique.
Director’s Craft
Your group will use equipment to try out film direction, and be taken through the process of creating shots and scenes.
NST Stage School Workshops
NST Stage School offers a choice of theatre-based workshops that can be tailored to the show you see and to your exact curriculum requirements. Your students will explore their own creative and drama skills with the assistance of qualified teaching artists, giving you the opportunity to get involved too!
The Art of the Quick Change
Your group will have the chance to learn how Broadway professionals have only seconds to change costumes for a quick scene change. Everyone will have the opportunity to see this quick change happen, and then volunteers will be able to take part in this session.
Stage Combat (1 ½ Hours)
Our most popular workshop! A fun and interactive session that culminates in students creating their own combat sequence under the guidance of two teaching artists. Heightens focus, safety, and listening skills.
Broadway 101 (1 ½ Hours)
Involve your students in storytelling exercises, and introduce them to the history of Broadway and professional theatre. They’ll gain a contextual and thematic background of a show you choose to see.
Business of the Business (1 ½ Hours)
Your group will be taken through the steps of how a Broadway show is put into production. Starting from scratch up until final casting and opening night, your group will learn the process of putting a show up on Broadway. Your students will take on certain roles in theatre and present a scene with all the theatrical aspects (actor, director, set designer, costumier, choreographer, etc). This hands-on workshop offers a great insight into the business of Broadway theatre.
Step by Step (1 ½ Hours)
Put their dance moves to the test in this spectacular masterclass with a professional Broadway dancer. Your group will interpret choreography and its dramatic meanings, and explore different styles of dance.
Musical Theatre Song & Movement (1 ½ Hours)
Your group will be provided with sheet music and work with a cast member (from a show you see) and a pianist to recreate a true Broadway rehearsal. Students will learn choreography, staging and music directly from the Broadway production they are seeing.
Making a Scene (1 ½ Hours)
Your students will be encouraged to make bold and creative acting choices in this workshop, during which a professional actor or teaching artist will advise them on vocal techniques and character development. Working from a scripted scene, your students will interpret and bring a text to life in truthful, imaginative and specific ways. Come prepared with a scene of your choice, or let us provide one for you.
Theatre Sports (1 ½ Hours)
Keep your group active with non-stop theatre games and encourage their creativity through participation, whilst heightening their focus.
Other popular workshops include:
Stage Make-up (1 ½ Hours)
Costume Design (1 ½ Hours)
Wicked Backstage: Behind the Emerald Curtain
Take a magical journey behind-the-scenes at smash hit musical, Wicked. Visit the exclusive ‘Behind the Emerald Curtain’ museum, including an intimate look at the Tony Award-winning sets and costumes, as well as some of the actual props and wigs from the show. The ultimate insider experience! Available Saturday mornings only.
Leisure Visits & Attractions
As the UK’s leading educational travel company, we get access to exclusive school group prices for nearly all visits and attractions – and we’ll pass these savings on to you! Here are our top choices for groups:
Top of the Rock™
Experience the best and most complete daytime view of New York City! With its relatively short waiting times, the Rockefeller Building offers an informative guide and a unique view of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and Central Park.
We recommend that groups venture to the Top of the Rock™ in the daytime, and complement this with an evening visit to the top of the Empire State Building.
Empire State Building
Venture over ¼ of a mile skyward and take in the scale of the immense urban landscape which opens up before you. This is a great way for your students to appreciate the city away from the hustle and bustle of the streets below. A particularly popular first evening visit.
Circle Line Cruise
Take in a spectacular view of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from the water, and pick out the many famous landmarks which dominate its skyline.
The Beast! Speedboat
It’s a thrill-a-minute aboard New York’s fastest boat ride. Imagine flying across the waters of New York harbour at 45mph. An exhilarating alternative to our popular Circle Line Cruise, at no extra cost.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
An insightful visit which details the history of a great universal symbol of political freedom and democracy – the Statue of Liberty. Your group will learn about the important role this island played in immigration.
Manhattan Guided Walking Tour
Make sure you see all the sights by taking a 4-hour guided tour around the city. A popular and informative way to see all of the best and key city sights of your choice.
IMAX Cinema
Take some time out to watch a popular recent release or 3D film on one of several huge cinema screens.
Art Museums
Our free-gallery booking service makes it easy for you to jump the queue at many of New York’s fascinating art galleries and museums.
Free Time
As well as the visits listed, we are able to provide fantastic group prices on many other New York attractions. Or why not schedule in some free time for your group to shop ’til they drop at Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, or Century 21! Call today with your preferences.
Below, you'll find some of our most popular accommodation options for school groups.
This is just a sample of our full range, so for full details of all properties available, please call 0845 688 8988 to speak to one of our Educational Travel Advisors today.
Hotel Bedford
The Hotel Bedford was built in 1929 in a classical European style. The hotel is situated in the middle of one of the quieter streets in the heart of mid-town Manhattan
Hotel Bedford
The Hotel Bedford offers a professional, friendly service with a good standard of accommodation in an excellent location. This is a cosy, friendly hotel offering a comfortable retreat in the heart of busy Manhattan. Groups are assured a warm welcome and comfortable stay.
Address118E. 40th Street | Local Rating |
Capacity380 guests. 58 suites & 78 rooms over 17 floors. |
Location Information
The Hotel Bedford is located on 40th Street between Park and Lexington Avenues in the heart of Manhattan. It is situated close to Broadway, the theatres and Grand Central Station. It is also a short walk from the Rockefeller Centre, St Patrick’s Cathedral, the United Nations, Fifth Avenue shops and the Empire State Building.
Accommodation Facilities
- 24-hour reception
- Lounge
- Laundry facilities
- 2 Lifts
- Free wireless internet access
- Disabled facilities: This property has no specific facilities or adapted rooms for disabled clients.
Student Rooms
- 2-4 bedded rooms (combination of large double beds (for two students), sofa beds and roll-away beds, most groups are accommodated on a bed share basis i.e. two students sharing a large double bed).
- En-suite facilities
- Air conditioning
- Hairdryer
- TV
- Telephone
- Safety deposit box
- Towels
- Iron & ironing board
- Tea & coffee making facilities
Staff Rooms
- Twins/singles
- En-suite facilities
- Air conditioning
- Hairdryer
- TV
- Telephone
- Safety deposit box
- Towels
- Iron & ironing board
- Tea & coffee making facilities
Safety Guidance
The hotel conforms to all local standards, which does not require windows to have restricted opening. Group leaders are advised to consider this in their risk assessments/group management plan and ensure appropriate control measures are put in place.
Security Deposit
Please note that security against damage payment/credit card is required on arrival at the hotel of $20 per person. This is refundable at the end of your stay providing there is no damage. In order to avoid misunderstanding, we suggest all group leaders undertake an inspection of all rooms with hotelier/duty manager on arrival and departure and any existing damage is immediately reported. N.B. There is an additional charge of $500 for misuse of the fire alarm.
West Side YMCAThis hostel offers basic accommodation in an unbeatable location. The leisure facilities are used by residents and locals alike.
West Side YMCA
This large youth hostel offers good value for money and excellent facilities in a nice location. Management staff have comprehensive knowledge of group requirements.
Address5 West 63rd Street | Local Rating |
Capacity548 rooms over 3 floors. |
Location Information
Situated in an excellent Upper West Side location opposite Central Park, the West Side YMCA is approximately 5 minutes’ walk north of Columbus Circle (subway lines A,C,E,1,2,3, B, D and Q on 59th Street) and Times Square is also nearby.
Accommodation Facilities
- 24-hour reception
- 24-hour security
- Tourist information desk
- Lounge area
- 2 Indoor swimming pools
- Health club / Gymnasium
- Racquetball, handball and squash courts
- Shop
- Juice bars on the 3rd & 6th floors
- Drinks machines
- Public phones on each floor
- Safety deposit boxes
- 4 Lifts
- Disabled facilities: There is 1 specially adapted room for disabled/wheelchair guests.
Student Rooms
- Twin bedded rooms (bunk beds)
- Communal male and female shower and toilet facilities on each floor
- Closet
- TV
- Air conditioning
Staff Rooms
- Twins/singles (bunk beds)
- Communal male and female shower and toilet facilities on each floor
- Closet
- TV
- Air conditioning
Safety Guidance
The hotel conforms to all local standards, which does not require windows to have restricted opening or plate glass windows/patio doors to have anti-collision motifs to ensure that people are aware glass is present. Group leaders are advised to consider this in their risk assessments/group management plan and ensure appropriate control measures are put in place.
We can pre-book your meals at our great group prices to help your itinerary run smoothly – and you’ll know your currency exchange rate for meals well in advance too. Popular options include:
- Continental/American breakfast
- Planet Hollywood
- Hard Rock Cafe
- Bubba Gump Shrimp
- John’s Shanghai
…and more!
