I always wanted to sing on a West End stage and my time at Weston College absolutely helped me to achieve that dream.

Following a brief time studying for A Levels I realised that, rather than theoretical study of theatre, I wanted to immerse myself in learning about acting in a practical, physical way. My passion was for musical theatre so, as a Weston girl, the course at Weston College was a no brainer for me. I loved the community at Creative Arts Weston. There was a real buzz with so many creative people working alongside each other, and it was an amazing opportunity to experience so many disciplines. 

The end of year shows at the Playhouse Theatre were a real highlight, particularly when I had the chance to play Millie in Thoroughly Modern Millie and take on such a challenging tap role. Tap dancing was not my strength at the time but the tutors gave me so much confidence, and I still use the techniques they taught me then. I also loved the pantomime that we put on at the Blakehay Theatre each year. People can be snooty about panto, but it is often people’s first introduction to live theatre. It was wonderful to learn that style of acting and then to perform, as both a princess and principal boy, to so many happy families at Christmas.  

On completion of the course I decided to stay on to take the foundation degree in musical theatre. I knew I still had so much to learn and the best people to teach me were the amazing lecturers at Creative Arts Weston. Not only did they teach me techniques and methods that I still use today, but they empowered me and gave me so much confidence in myself. After achieving a First-Class Foundation Degree, I took that confidence and applied to drama school. 

I did a one-year National diploma at LSMT (London School of Musical Theatre) and from there was put forward for the Stephen Sondheim Performer of the Year award, which took place at the Garrick Theatre. It was incredibly rewarding to go on to win the award and that then led to my debut in a comedy musical. For a while after that I was the lead vocalist on a Holland America cruise ship which was a wonderful opportunity that meant I was able to visit 68 countries in 6 months! 

I have starred in shows including GOD, Can’t Stop It, Ushers: The Front of House Musical and Girlfriends. Prior to lockdown I was performing in venues across the country as a Swing in the UK touring production of Les Misérables, the show that sparked my love of musical theatre. It was a long-held dream to perform in Les Misérables so I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to be part of such an incredible show. The show transferred to the Sondheim Theatre and I continued as a Swing, but also became Dance Captain and Assistant Children’s Director. 

I have just returned from Germany where I was playing Elizabeth in Young Frankenstein. 

My advice to anyone just starting out on their studies at Creative Arts Weston is just to go for it! Like anything else in life, you get out what you put in, so if you have a dream and the determination to make it real then the incredible tutors will help get you there.