My Motivation To Pursue A Career In Theatre

Bringing people together to enjoy a production is a magical and memorable experience and over the years I’ve had the privilege to watch and perform in some amazing productions. I believe that taking young people to live theatre provides a host of developmental benefits, including improved emotional intelligence and opportunities to discuss difficult subjects. This has been the catalyst for me to pursue a career in theatre.

I’ve been fortunate to secure work placements at Chichester Festival Theatre (CFT) and the Goodwood Estate. CFT gave me the opportunity to work with young people and the elderly where I delivered workshops for people with dementia. Working at Goodwood just after The Festival of Speed gave me an insight into the delivery of a major event and the intense planning required ensuring its smooth running, much like a theatre production. Both placements allowed me to work independently whilst guiding me through the placement. I was able to gain a valued insight into the varied career opportunities available post a degree in Theatre, meet new people with similar career outlooks and improve my presentation skills.I have to thank Ruth Stein who was my tap dancing teacher for opening a door when she encouraged me to audition for a part in GYPSY at The Three Mills Studios with Director Jonathan Kent and Chorographer, Stephen Mear, Imelda Staunton, Lara Pulver and Dan Burton. Following several auditions, I was cast as a newsboy and had the daunting task of also understudying all the young male newsboy roles! I thoroughly enjoyed watching the production grow and being part of an inspiring team – this was a journey I will never forget. After appearing in GYPSY, I was invited to be part of the celebrated Chichester Festival Youth Theatre (CFYT).

In the last four years, I have successfully been cast in all of their Christmas and summer productions. Most recently, I secured the role of KiKi the Cockatoo in Dale Rook’s adaptation of Beauty and the Beast. KiKi is the equivalent to Lumiere in the Disney version! I was delighted to sing and dance solo to 1200 people in the theatre and enjoyed making them laugh with my performance! This Christmas, I have been given the role of The Prince of Questions in Sleeping Beauty, the Rufus Norris production first seen at The Young Vic – I’m really looking forward to this role.As Director, I recently won our school House Drama competition. Sixth Form students’ deliver short plays to the whole school. I decided to adapt ‘Beautiful Burnout’ by Bryony Lavery. I shortened the play to 30 minutes, cast it from younger students, sourced the costumes, props and managed a team to produce an engaging story. It was great to use sound and physical theatre, directing younger students. I was delighted to get to the final 3 and eventually win, being judged by a professional actor and casting agent. This opportunity made me realise that I certainly am on the right pathway.

My A levels, English Language, History and Mathematics give me a broad knowledge. I am working towards my Gold LAMDA and attend weekly at CFYT to continue to develop my drama skills.I have enjoyed success in other areas. I have achieved my black belt (1st Dan) in karate whilst also being National champion for kumite (fighting) and kata (applications) for a number of years, grade 6 (distinction) in tap dancing and grade 4 in modern dance and have been playing hockey for Chichester for many years. I was part of a successful development group of 15-17 year olds playing against Sussex Division 3 men’s teams – we were delighted to win the league. I have achieved enjoyment and success in my other interests through perseverance, determination and self-motivation.I am currently employed by Caper and Berry who run the Café at CFT. My contract here allows me to be part of productions. Prior to this I worked for Russell & Bromley as a fitter in the children’s department. Both roles have needed me to be personable which is so important to working within a team, a must for a theatre production.

Although it has been hard to fit all these activities into my schedule, my organisational skills and determination have been important, maintaining a balance between academic and other interests. I’m excited at the prospect and the challenge of studying the concepts of Theatre. I have the right qualities to ensure I will be successful in this career if given the opportunity to study the course at your University.