Yesterday, ArtsEd’s BA Acting and BA Musical Theatre students came dressed in caps and colourful gowns to celebrate the completion of their higher education courses, all qualifying with flying colours.
Surrounded by supportive family members, friends and ArtsEd staff, this year’s graduation was a joyful and memorable occasion with everyone enjoying the prospect of a new and bright future for the ArtsEd graduates.
The ceremony began with an opening speech from ArtsEd’s Principal, Chris Hocking, who addressed the grads with his witty and inspirational words:
“I’m absolutely convinced that you will all go on to brilliant, varied, interesting and stimulating jobs in your journey through the business-of-show.
“As you enter the ‘Theme Park’ of proper adult life you will see lots of different career rides that you didn’t choose. Careers that just go round and round like on a ‘Merry-Go-Round’; careers that push you from pillar to post – like Dodgems; careers that are scary – but then turn out to be quite dull – like a Haunted House. Now you are trained for the best Theme Park ride. You are on the one that everyone wants to go on – but many are far too scared to try. It is of course: THE ROLLERCOASTER!”
The opening speech was shortly followed by addresses from the Head of the Department of the School of Acting, Gareth Farr, and Musical Theatre graduate, Oliver Corbett, and Acting graduate, Thaddea Graham.
Guest Speaker, the amazing triple-threat star of stage and screen, Sharon D Clarke addressed the students with inspirational words sprinkled with practical career advice:
“Make sure you acknowledge everyone working with you along the way with a friendly hello – the cleaners, stage managers and even your dressers!
A ripple of laughter ran through the crowds as Sharon added:
“And remember! Don’t leave your sweaty costumes on the dressing room floor for someone else to clean up!”
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The students were awarded individual certificates by City, University of London, and continued celebrations back at ArtsEd where many graduates signed up to become part of the ArtsEd Alumni Network – ensuring their legacy at ArtsEd lives on.