At primary school I had the chance to be Cinderella. Feeling beautiful in my bridesmaids dress going to the ball. I was the lead and I couldn’t actually believe it had happened again. I remember my friend playing the part of a terrible singer off stage and us laughing hilariously, struggling to get through our lines in rehearsals.
However scary it is to act for the first time, especially on stage in front of an audience; I have been there. This first hand experience helps me guide children and young people through our acting workshops. If you are willing to give it a go, I guarantee everyone has the potential to enjoy performing arts and lose themselves in a character.
After primary school I went on to complete GCSE Drama, again loving every minute. My drama teacher Ms Teerney was funny, if not absolutely bonkers; I don’t think she would mind me using that terminology! She would enter the room and all eyes would be on her, wondering what she would task us with that day.
Having the opportunity to devise my own work was incredible, even after the 6 hour exam, which is reality didn’t feel like an exam, as it was so enjoyable. Devising at age 15 felt strange, having so much responsibility was exhilarating but terrifying at the same time. This was most probably the start of my desire to write for stage.
Through my GCSE I also had a great insight into costume and stage makeup, through developing an extensive portfolio. To date this has given me the confidence to do stage make-up for a handful of productions. The first one I was thrown in the deep end when the make-up artist was unwell but thankfully the director was really happy, phew!
Amidst all the theatre, film and TV companies out there why use Penguin Acting & Theatre Productions? Because all our teachers have personal experience of acting, we know the industry but we also care and with our passion drama has the power to change lives.