Canvas Bag Drama (formerly Mozarts Drama School), began in 1995.

It was established by educator and writer Felicity Williams, to provide children and young people with a high quality after school activity that developed inquiry, creativity and imagination. And it also had to be fun!

In 2016 we renamed and rebranded to become Canvas Bag Drama. Our classes are held in The Theatre and various other locations, all on the grounds of Rangi Ruru High School, Merivale, Christchurch. In 2017 we opened a satellite campus in South Brighton and in 2018 we did the same in Halswell. In 2025, the South Brighton campus was moved to the Bromley Reserve.

On October 1st, 2024 Harry Lawrence took ownership of the drama school, with Felicity moving to the role of patron. Harry, who founded the Hwyl Theatre Company, brings an exciting development to Canvas Bag Drama School with the establishment of the Canterbury Youth Theatre 2025.

Over the last 30 years we have been privileged to see hundreds of children and teenagers benefit from our classes which embrace the full spectrum of performing arts.

Contact the host of Spring Holiday Drama Workshops 2026 - Te Matatiki Toi Ora The Arts Centre