Sarah is a 15-year-old theater student at CAPA who values her privacy. She struggles with the intense emotional demands of her drama classes and the shifting dynamics of her friendships. Though she presents an independent front, she seeks meaningful connections and feels pressure from the adults around her.

David is a 15-year-old upper-class theater student at CAPA. He desires a public, celebrated relationship, contrasting sharply with his girlfriend's need for privacy. He relies heavily on validation from his peers and teachers to build his self-worth.

A highly charismatic and demanding drama teacher and administrator at CAPA. He commands absolute respect from his students, utilizing unorthodox and emotionally invasive exercises to draw out their acting talents. He frequently blurs professional boundaries by involving himself in his students' personal lives.

Karen is an observant, somewhat reclusive student at CAPA. She operates on the periphery of the main theater clique but maintains a sharp memory of social dynamics. She has a complex relationship with her eccentric mother and harbors a desire to perform despite her quiet demeanor.

Claire is an adopted young woman in her mid-twenties searching for information about her early childhood. She struggles with feelings of inadequacy and turns to online therapists to process her anxiety. Her quest for answers leads her to investigate the history of a performing arts school.

Martin is a 40-year-old drama teacher from Bournemouth, England. He is boisterous and enjoys being the center of attention. He uses his position of authority to charm younger women and consistently seeks out the spotlight.

Liam is a young British actor brought to CAPA to perform. While conventionally handsome, he lacks genuine charisma and relies on aggressive pursuit to secure attention. He is spoiled by his mother and often disregards the boundaries of those around him.

Elli is Karen's eccentric mother. She acts more like a peer to the teenagers than a traditional parent, eagerly involving herself in the CAPA social scene. She is hospitable and quick to offer comfort to distressed students.

Sarah's mother is a hard-working parent who worries constantly about her daughter's intense involvement at CAPA. She maintains strict rules but genuinely wishes to maintain a close connection with her increasingly distant teenager.

Claire's adoptive mother is a loving parent who recognizes the limitations of what she can provide her daughter emotionally. She understands that Claire has questions about her origins that cannot be answered within their immediate family.

Joelle is a sophomore theater student at CAPA and Sarah's former best friend. She is deeply hurt by Sarah pulling away and struggles to understand the deterioration of their bond.

Manuel is a sophomore theater student who overcomes initial stage fright to secure a leading role in the school musical. He becomes the target of rumors and sabotage after gaining the spotlight.

A new teacher at CAPA who leads unconventional physical exercises. Initially mocked by the students, she quickly earns their admiration through her sharp emotional insight.

Tim is Mr. Kingsley's domestic partner. He shares a home with the drama teacher and occasionally interacts with the students who visit.