Robbie Williams to open performing arts academy at London’s Olympic Park

Robbie Williams wants to create “the next generation of pop stars” by bringing his performing arts academy to the Olympic Park. 

The singer became co-owner of LMA, which teaches courses including music, dance and film and TV production, earlier this year and has now backed its plans for a 30,000sq ft campus at Here East in Stratford. 

Williams said that he was “extremely excited” about the school, which will open next year.

Neighbours on the campus will include dancer Wayne McGregor’s studio and the wider Stratford area will become home to V&A East, a new Sadler’s Wells venue, the BBC Symphony Orchestra and London College of Fashion. 

He said: “I know I can pass on my experience and assist in creating the next generation of pop stars, performers and creatives.” 

The move comes eight years after Williams pulled out of the Olympics closing ceremony because it clashed with his wife Ayda’s due date with their first child.

 Here East CEO, Gavin Poole, said: “There is huge value in academic institutions such as LMA sitting alongside world-class entrepreneurs, creatives and academics to share ideas, knowledge and expertise. 

“We look forward to welcoming students from LMA into our community and further establishing Here East as one of the most exciting creative hubs in London.” 

Williams first found fame in boyband Take That. 

LMA was set up 10 years ago by brothers Simon and Richard Wallace.

Its other major shareholders include former Tesco boss Sir Terry Leahy.