The generous donation was made by the Seaford and Newhaven Round Table and presented by Martin Sapwell.
He was invited to the group's latest performance of the The Twits, where the handover took place.
Martin said, "It is clear the children benefit so much from being part of the Academy, you can see the joy they get from performing. It is a pleasure to contribute funds to such an important community project which is having such positive impact on young people."
A parent of the Academy added, "I thank the Academy for the wonderful opportunities and experiences that it gives to my children; they have great fun and are developing enormous confidence."
The Academy is running a special summer school for young people aged seven upwards, from August 19 to August 22 at St Bede's senior school in The Miles Studios, with days covering dance, vocal training, singing, physical theatre, puppets and mask work.
People are welcome to come along for a day or the whole week and meet new friends and have fun, no experience required.
Phone Helen on 07791 081935 for more details.