ABOUT US
Butler Patrice Performing Arts is a dynamic and inclusive performing arts school based in Malahide, Co. Dublin, founded by brother and sister Vanessa Butler and James Patrice. Built on a shared lifelong passion for the arts, the school offers high-quality training in singing, dancing, and acting, while nurturing confidence, creativity, and individuality in every student.
With professional backgrounds in performance and education, Vanessa and James bring both expertise and heart to everything they do. Their sibling partnership creates a warm, energetic atmosphere where students feel supported, encouraged, and inspired to grow both on and off the stage.
WHAT WE OFFER
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Weekly Saturday classes (from September)
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Easter & Summer camps
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Age-appropriate performing arts training
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Focus on confidence, movement & expression
MEET THE TEAM
Vanessa Butler
Vanessa Butler is a classically trained singer from Malahide, Co. Dublin.
Her passion for the performing arts began at an early age. Vanessa started studying Speech and Drama at the age of five, and by ten she had begun piano and vocal training, later studying voice under the direction of Dr. Veronica Dunne in the Royal Irish Academy of Music.
Her love of performance and success in national competitions led her to pursue a Bachelor of Music degree at NUI Maynooth, where she graduated with First Class Honours in Performance.
Vanessa went on to complete a Graduate Diploma in Music Education at the University of Limerick and has worked as a secondary school teacher since 2005.
She has over 20 years’ experience directing Transition Year school shows, developing students’ confidence, performance skills, and appreciation for the arts.
James Patrice
James Patrice is a graduate of Drama and Theatre Studies and French from Trinity College, Dublin, where he majored in Drama, specifically comedy and advanced acting.
James is a presenter and performer, best known for his roving reports on RTÉ’s flagship daytime television show 'Today' and his shimmering behind the scenes antics as 'Dancing With The Stars’ digital presenter.
When he’s not popping up on our screens, you can find him entertaining the masses online with his witty observations on Irish daily life under the glittering guise of his drag alter ego - the ultimate Irish Mammy - Malahide Woman.
James has spent the last 8 years as one of the leads in The 3Olympia Theatre’s iconic Christmas pantomime, most recently playing the magical role of ‘Glinda Martin’.
LOCATION
All classes and camps take place in The Loft Room, on the ground of
Malahide Castle, providing a beautiful and inspiring setting for creative learning.