In Conversation, remembering Dame Gillian Lynne

On Thursday 28^th May we welcomed audiences to a very special evening celebrating the life and legacy of Dame Gillian Lynne.

It was a heartfelt event filled with moving conversations, treasured memories and reflections on the extraordinary impact Gillian had on theatre, dance and the wider arts.  We were honored to be joined by a distinguished panel of Peter Land, Chrissie Cartwright, Sir Luke Rittner and Sierra Boggess who all shared personal stories and insights into Gillian’s remarkable career and lasting influence.

The evening also featured beautiful performances from ArtsEd musical theatre students, choreographed by Grace Harrington and Matthew Malthouse, showcasing the talent, creativity and passion that continue to inspire future generations of performers.

Some of the panel discussion included what makes a great dance teacher today, how Gillian’s unique approach as a choreographer and director has impacted dance training today (“Energy breeds energy” was Gillian’s favourite maxim.) and what her lasting legacy will be in influencing the future of dance and choreography as well as supporting the future generations through the Lynne and Land Foundation.

“Teachers are there to inspire their students. Never assume you know it all and continue learning right up until the end and never rest on your laurels… There are three things which are important in education, head, heart and hand – the head is the academic bit, the heart is the passion bit which lights you up and the hand is the practical bit which puts it into action.  All teaching should have these three things.”  Sir Luke Rittner.

The panel generously imparted advice to our students.. “Make sure you have a dialogue, don’t just do movement, talk to yourself as you are moving. It’s about storytelling. “

Chrissie Cartwright

“You need passion and work ethic, the work never stops. You never arrive. Always be looking to what’s next. Keep being passionate. The audience needs you now more than ever. The world needs you now more than ever. We cannot survive this world without the arts. We need your version. There isn’t one way to do this, there isn’t one path, you are who you are as you came onto this planet and the need to do what you are doing is enough and the rest of it is the work.”

Sierra Boggess

We were also delighted to hear from Charlotte and Halle, our Lynne and Land Scholars discussing their personal journeys which are a testament to the ongoing impact and financial support from the Lynne and Land Foundation and the opportunities it continues to create for young artists.

“We are so grateful to the panel for joining us for such a special evening, remembering our alumna Dame Gillian Lynne. Our students were beyond excited to be in the room for this ‘In Conversation’ hearing from industry leaders and esteemed performers.  Being able to gain an insight into forging a career in the performing arts and what it takes to turn that career into something sustainable and successful was such a wonderful opportunity for them.”

Professor Louise Jackson

Thank you to our inspiring panel, students and everyone who joined us for such a memorable evening celebrating an artist whose influence continues to be felt across theatre, dance and the wider arts.

All of these events support our bursary programme ensuring talented students can train at ArtsEd regardless of their financial situation.

If you would like to make a donation in support of our bursary fund or become a Friend of ArtsEd and support us all year round please visit our Support us page to find out more.

Struggling to figure out how to prepare for your next audition? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

Our experienced Acting staff have shared their top tips and expert advice to help you approach auditions with confidence and ease. From preparation strategies to what you can expect during the process, these insights will set you up for success.

Advice and tips from; Sam Gibbs, Foundation Acting Course Leader, Marnie Baxter, Head of Film & TV and Joint Head of Third Year & George Richmond-Scott, MA Acting Course Leader.

How to pick an audition piece?

• Preparation is key. Do the work!
• Read and / or watch some plays, try to pick character’s that are around the same age as you, think about what impression you want to make, if you love a speech – trust your gut and go for it.
• Look for a speech you connect with or that sparks your imagination, find contrasting speeches that both have a journey. Avoid changing your accent, we want to hear YOU.
• It is not about making an ‘alternative’ or ‘interesting’ choice, it’s about finding something you connect with, you can relate or connect to.

What to Expect?

• Take direction. Be ready to listen to the panel and make quick changes to your performance in the room, based on the notes given.
• This is YOUR moment, so be brave enough to find your centre before you begin the scene. Take your time, remember to breathe.

Self-Tape Tips

• Shoot in landscape, have a plain background.
• Consider a three takes and done mantra, don’t get into your head, if you shoot three takes it is highly unlikely any extra takes will get what you feel you are missing.
• Find the journey of the scene, find the shift, how is your character different from the start to finish? What is the environment of the scene? How does this effect the character?
• Look at speeches as thoughts rather than lines.

What should I wear?

• Wear clothing you are comfortable in and can move freely in. If you feel comfortable it will help you in your performance(s).
• It is helpful if there is no text or strong images on your clothing, mainly because this can draw focus away from you and your performance.

Remember

• Enjoy the process, this is an opportunity to show your work, allow it to be joyful.
• During all in person auditions, the panels will want you to do the best you can. They are not trying to trip you up, or catch you out, so head into those audition rooms knowing we are rooting for you!

Applications Open

Applications for our Acting courses are open! Find out more below and take the first step to your acting career with us.

Foundation Acting BA (Hons) Acting MA Acting

Exciting casting news for the UK & Ireland tour of Hamilton! ArtsEd alumnus Marley Fenton, School of Musical Theatre (BA) Graduate 2023, will step into the iconic role of Alexander Hamilton. This news shortly comes after Fenton winning the 2024 Black British Theatre Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for his role of the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz.

We are all delighted for Marley and his new role as Alexander Hamilton in the UK tour of Hamilton. He will become the youngest person to play Hamilton which is a testament to him and his outstanding talent and ability, and his work ethic. Marley graduated from the School of Musical Theatre in 2023 and since then has already begun to forge an exciting career. We wish him all the very best with this new venture and we can’t wait to see him in the show!

Jonathan O’Boyle, Director of the School of Musical Theatre

Joining Fenton are some of our other talented ArtsEd graduates:

• Billy Luke Nevers as Aaron Burr
• Casey Al-Shaqsy as Eliza Hamilton (from 26 March 2025)
• Akmed Junior Khemalai as George Washington
• Jonathan Hermosa-Lopez as part of the ensemble and Standby/Alternate Hamilton, 1st Cover Lafayette/Jefferson & 3rd Cover King

As the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical continues to dominate the West End, booking through autumn 2025, the UK & Ireland tour adds fresh excitement to its legacy.

With book, music, and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision by Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton brings the story of America’s founding fathers to life. The production is enhanced by stunning designs from David Korins (scenic), Paul Tazewell (costume), Howell Binkley (lighting), Nevin Steinberg (sound), and Charles G LaPointe (hair and wigs).

The Hamilton phenomenon continues to inspire audiences across the globe – and this new cast is set to dazzle on its journey!

Congratulations everyone, we are so proud of you all and can’t wait to see you take the stage!

Are you dreaming of a vibrant career in Musical Theatre? At ArtsEd, we’re excited to guide you through each step of your application process. Whether you’re considering the BA or the Foundation in Musical Theatre degree programme, this guide is designed to make your application journey informed and smooth sailing.

Applications are now open for 2026 entry.

1. Choosing The Right Programme

• BA (Hons) Musical Theatre
• Certificate of Higher Education Musical Theatre (Foundation)

Assess each programme’s curriculum, duration, and prerequisites. This will help you align your choice with your career goals and educational background, setting the stage for a successful career in musical theatre.

• Read about our School of Acting here.

2. Think About How You’ll Finance Your Studies

Take a moment to ponder your financial planning for your studies at ArtsEd. This is an important step before you begin the application process. We have various scholarships and funding options available, so please investigate and consider what financial support you might need throughout your studies.

Read about funding and scholarships available for ArtsEd students here.

Remember, investing in your education is investing in your future, and ensuring your financial stability during your studies will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the ArtsEd experience without undue stress.

3. Apply Online Via Our Application Portal Before 1 April 2026

Apply via our user-friendly online application portal. The digital portal is designed to guide applicants through a step-by-step process, from account creation to document submission. Having a checklist of necessary documents and prerequisites readily available can be immensely helpful at this stage.

Please note that our application deadline is on 1 April 2026, make sure you finish your applications by then.

Apply Now

4. Pick Your Audition Date

Selecting your audition date is a crucial step in the application process. Consider your preparedness, availability, and any other commitments when choosing a date that allows you ample time for thorough preparation and relaxation before the audition. Mark the date in your calendar, set reminders, and organise your schedule to build towards this important day.

5. Get Audition Ready Using Our Useful Tips

Audition preparation is often marked by a blend of excitement and nervousness. Utilise our useful tips and guides to navigate your preparation phase seamlessly.

• Musical Theatre audition tips – Master your ArtsEd audition! Hear from ArtsEd’s Director of Musical Theatre Jonathan O’Boyle as he shares his tips and tricks to help you prepare for a Musical Theatre audition day that includes singing, acting, and dancing.

Ensure you adhere to the guidelines provided and engage in rigorous practice. Seeking feedback from mentors or peers during this phase can also provide valuable insights into your preparation.

6. Audition Day: Relax and Enjoy

The audition day is your moment to shine and showcase your talent and dedication to the craft. Approach the day with a calm, positive mindset and remember to enjoy the process. Whether you’re auditioning in person or virtually, ensure that you are present in the moment, and convey not just your skills, but also your passion and personality. Your authenticity and enjoyment of the craft will undoubtedly shine through when you’re genuinely engaged.

7. Wait for the Results

After auditioning, patience is your ally. Regardless of the outcome, the experience you gain is a stepping stone in your musical theatre journey.

Apply Now

8. If You Didn’t Get the Result You Were Hoping For, Don’t Worry

If you didn’t get the outcome you were hoping for, or you feel you’re not ready for the BA programme yet, have you considered our foundation programme.

Step into the spotlight with ArtsEd’s Full-Time Foundation Course in Musical Theatre! Led by Barney McElholm, this course is your perfect launchpad into the exhilarating world of musical theatre, focusing on nurturing your skills and confidence in singing, dancing, and acting. You’ll receive intensive one-to-one singing tuition, ensemble dance training in jazz and ballet, and tailor-made audition preparation, all delivered by our BA course tutors. With our experienced ArtsEd team guiding you, you’ll gain invaluable insights into what drama schools seek in auditions. Whether you’re aiming to progress to a full-time training course or just beginning your journey in musical theatre, our programme is designed to help you shine. Get ready to take the stage and embark on an unforgettable journey in musical theatre with ArtsEd!

Application deadline for our Foundation Programme is 1 April 2026.

Check out our foundation programme below.

Foundation in Musical Theatre

Each of these steps in the journey to applying for ArtsEd School of Acting unfolds a unique set of experiences and learnings. Embrace each stage with curiosity, dedication, and a love for the performing arts to pave your way into an exciting education in Acting or Musical Theatre. Remember, your journey in the performing arts is not just about perfecting the skill but also about enjoying the process and learning continually.

Interested in Acting?

School of Acting Application Guide

BA Acting        MA Acting       Certificate of Higher Education Acting (Foundation)

Welcome to ArtsEd, where your acting aspirations transform into reality! As you consider joining our esteemed School of Acting, we’re here to guide you through a smooth, informative application process. Whether you’re eyeing the BA, MA, or Foundation in Acting degree, this guide will help make your application journey as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Applications are now open for 2026 entry.

1. Choosing The Right Programme

• BA (Hons) Acting
• MA Acting
• Certificate of Higher Education Acting (Foundation)

Assess each programme’s curriculum, duration, and prerequisites. This will help you align your choice with your career goals and educational background, setting the stage for a successful career in acting.

• Read about our School of Musical Theatre here.

2. Think About How You’ll Finance Your Studies

Take a moment to ponder your financial planning for your studies at ArtsEd. It’s an important step before diving into the application process. We have various scholarships and funding options available to you; do please investigate and consider what financial support you might need throughout your studies.

Read about funding and scholarships available for ArtsEd students here.

Remember, investing in your education is investing in your future, and ensuring your financial stability during your studies will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the ArtsEd experience without undue stress.

3. Apply Online Via Our Application Portal Before 1 April 2026

Apply via our user-friendly online application portal. The digital portal is designed to guide applicants through a step-by-step process, from account creation to document submission. Having a checklist of necessary documents and prerequisites readily available can be immensely helpful at this stage.

Please note that our application deadline is on 1 April 2026, make sure you finish your applications by then.

Apply Now

4. Pick Your Audition Date

Selecting your audition date is a pivotal step in the application process. Considering your preparedness, availability, and any other engagements, choose a date that allows you enough time for thorough preparation and relaxation before the audition. Mark the date in your calendar, set reminders, and organise your schedule to build towards this important day.

5. Get Audition Ready Using Our Useful Tips

Audition preparation is often marked by a blend of excitement and nervousness. Utilise our useful tips and guides to navigate through your preparation phase seamlessly.

• How to Nail Your Drama School Audition article will walk you through the audition process for our Acting programmes with the Director of the School of Acting, Kim Vithana. It includes a comprehensive guide on how to prepare your self-tape, perform your monologues, and insights on what we’re looking for in the audition.

Ensure you adhere to the guidelines provided and engage in rigorous practice. Seeking feedback from mentors or peers can also be very beneficial in preparing for your audition day.

6. Audition Day: Relax and Enjoy

The audition day is your moment to shine and showcase your talent and dedication to the craft. Approach the day with a calm, positive mindset and remember to enjoy the process. Whether you’re auditioning in-person or virtually, ensure that you are present in the moment, and convey not just your skills, but also your passion and personality. Your authenticity and enjoyment of the craft will undoubtedly shine through when you’re genuinely engaged.

7. Wait for the Results

After your audition, patience is key as you await the results. Remember, the experience gained is invaluable for your future in acting.

Apply Now

8. If You Didn’t Get the Result You Were Hoping For, Don’t Worry

If you didn’t get the outcome you were hoping for, or you feel you’re not ready for the BA programme yet, have you considered our Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) programme.

Explore your passion for acting with ArtsEd’s Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) programme. Guided by Sam Gibbs at the Lyric Hammersmith, this course is your perfect stepping stone into the world of professional acting. With hands-on training, insights from industry giants like Mike Bartlett and Noma Dumezweni, and a nurturing environment, it’s not just about acting skills, but growing as a person too and preparing for further training. Also, with the perks of Young Lyric membership, this programme is an exciting adventure for all aspiring actors.

Application deadline for our Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) programme is 1 April 2026.

Check out our foundation programme below.

Foundation in Acting

Each of these steps in the journey to applying for ArtsEd School of Acting unfolds a unique set of experiences and learnings. Embrace each stage with curiosity, dedication, and a love for the performing arts to pave your way into an exiting education in Acting or Musical Theatre. Remember, your journey in the performing arts is not just about perfecting the skill but also about enjoying the process and learning continually.

Interested in Musical Theatre?

School of Musical Theatre Application Guide

BA Musical Theatre   Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) Musical Theatre

ArtsEd is delighted to announce the appointment of Adam Davenport to the role of Dean of Higher Education. 

Adam will be part of the new Executive Team, alongside Director of Finance and Operations Alex Gillespie, Headteacher of Day School & Sixth Form Peter Middleton, and the Director of Enterprise and External Engagement, which is currently being recruited.

As Dean of Higher Education, Adam will lead all aspects of ArtsEd’s higher education provision, including the Production Team and Registry and Student Support Team, playing a key role in shaping the future of training at ArtsEd.

Adam Davenport is currently Dean of Performers College, part of BIMM University, where he leads curriculum delivery, productions, quality assurance, student outcomes and strategic development across multiple campuses. Previously, he was Principal of Performers College Birmingham, where he led the launch of a new campus and the development of dynamic professional training courses in Musical Theatre and Acting.

He has also worked as a teacher, director and vocal coach across a range of specialist institutions. Adam trained professionally in Musical Theatre at the Royal Academy of Music and has experience as both a performer and talent agent, bringing valuable industry insight into specialist training and progression into the profession.

His background spans academic leadership, curriculum development, student experience and industry engagement, underpinned by a strong commitment to delivering high-quality vocational performance training.

Adam commented on his appointment:

“I am thrilled to be joining ArtsEd at such an exciting time for the institution. ArtsEd has an outstanding reputation for professional training and for developing talented, artistic and multi-skilled graduates who go on to make a significant impact in the industry. I’m looking forward to working with inspirational colleagues across the organisation, supporting students to flourish, and contributing to the next stage of ArtsEd’s journey.”

Principal Prof. Louise Jackson said

 “I am delighted to be announcing this wonderful appointment. Adam is a first-class educator who has a huge amount of expertise in student-centred specialist vocational training , I know from my previous experience of working with him that he will bring an enormous amount of energy and expertise to ArtsEd in supporting colleagues and helping us move forward in this exciting time of change. I can’t wait to see what he achieves here!’

 Adam will join ArtsEd later this year, marking an exciting step forward for the future of Higher Education at the institution.

After a hugely impactful period as Interim Executive Lead for Higher Education and five years as Director of the School of Musical Theatre, Jonathan O’Boyle will be leaving these roles at the end of the academic year to return to full-time directing work, where demand for his talent continues to grow.

During his time with us, Jonathan has played a pivotal role in evolving our training, helping to shape a more contemporary, industry-connected approach that continues to benefit our students.

He has overseen the delivery of exceptional productions, the successful revalidation of the BA(Hons) Musical Theatre course, our TEF Gold award and an Outstanding Ofsted Inspection for our Trinity Diplomas. Jonathan has been a hugely valued presence across the institution.

Our students and staff have greatly benefited from working alongside someone so respected within the industry, and we are extremely grateful for his contribution.

We are incredibly proud to support this next stage of his career and are pleased to share that this is not a goodbye, but an exciting evolution of our relationship. He will continue to work with ArtsEd in a part-time capacity as Head of ArtsEd Futures, supporting our creative strategy and bringing his industry insight and experience to our work.

In this new role, he will play a key part in shaping future creative opportunities across ArtsEd, ensuring our training remains closely connected to industry and continues to evolve, as well as continuing to support our graduating students as they enter the industry.

Jonathan today said: “It has been an absolute joy and a privilege to work at ArtsEd over the last five years. I’m thrilled to be continuing my relationship with the institution as I return to my full-time directing career. The staff and students here are extraordinary, and working with them has been a highlight of my career. I wanted to thank everyone at ArtsEd for their support over the last five years and I look forward to what the future has in store.”

Principal Louise Jackson said: “Jonathan is the most wonderful colleague, and it is not surprising how in demand he is as a director. His creative vision and his kindness are unique, and I am pleased to be supporting him pursue his directing career whilst also continuing to benefit from his advice and guidance. Students will also be able to gain from his expertise and support as they ready themselves to take their own positions within industry.” 

We wish Jonathan all the very best and look forward to continuing to work together on a number of exciting projects, which we will share in due course.

We were overjoyed to welcome this incredible panel of artists and industry leaders to ArtsEd to celebrate International Women’s Day and discuss the issues facing women in film, tv and theatre today.  The panel discussed life in the industry from several perspectives: performing, casting, writing and training, and the challenges, realities and opportunities for women working in theatre and musical theatre today.

Each of the panel generously shared a reading or song that meant something to them or had inspired them in their career. The panel discussion covered everything from the availability of great parts for women, navigating the industry, how to advocate for yourself and be your own superhero and what we want the future of the industry to look like.

Two of our Alumni (Cash Holland, BA Hons Acting graduate 2018 and Zoe Brough, Day School and Sixth Form) discussed how their training at ArtsEd prepared them for their acting careers and the training in theatre they have taken with them onto screen.

“On stage you have to believe it in your whole body and your eyes but on screen you have to feel it rather than project it. You have to aim for truth.” (Cash Holland).

“Artsed gave me a lot of self-confidence, the school really rooted for you. I left with a lot of energy and passion.  ArtsEd gave me the self-confidence to just go out there and take the bull by the horns. It gave me believability in my conviction and intuition, self-worth and the ability to not go on set feeling like an imposter.” (Zoe Brough, Day School and Sixth Form alumni).

Second year acting student Luana Santos had the opportunity to share the stage and be part of the discussion, talking about her role as a Student Union Diversity Officer and what she would like to see Drama Schools do more of to support women in their training and trajectory into industry.

“As a student, being on a panel with such inspiring and wise women was an amazing opportunity. I feel very lucky to be involved with an open conversation about the issues of women globally but also celebrating our achievements and strength.

Something that really stuck with me was how the writer of Outrageous, Sarah Williams, spent 20 years pushing for it to be taken into production. The determination, passion and commitment really resonated with me and inspired me to always fight for whatever I believe and take pride in.” Luana Santos (Second year BA Acting)

“It was truly inspirational to meet those amazing alumnae. I was so thrilled to see their poise, confidence, and the brilliant performance each of them gave.” ArtsEd Friend

“Conversations like this are so important because the panel represents the future of the industry across a wide range of careers including performers, writers, creatives, collaborators. These are the individuals who will shape the stories we see on stage and on our screens.  It was wonderful to host an incredible panel of women involved in the creative industries, speaking so honestly and truthfully about navigating their careers, from working with all female creative teams, telling the stories of underrepresented women, availability of good roles for women over 40 and the importance of having dignity at work. I really look forward to continuing these important conversations and looking at ways to further support women going into the industry.”

 Professor Louise Jackson, Principal, ArtsEd

ArtsEd and Arts North Studios have announced a new strategic partnership designed to strengthen access to world-class performing arts training for young talent across the North East of England.

The partnership was formally confirmed with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Thursday 29 January at ArtsEd’s historic home in Chiswick. The agreement establishes new progression routes for aspiring performers, helping to bridge the gap between regional training and elite vocational pathways.

At the heart of the collaboration is a shared commitment to widening access, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring that exceptional talent can thrive regardless of geographical or socio-economic background. By combining ArtsEd’s century-long legacy of excellence with Arts North Studios’ deep roots in the Sunderland creative community, the partnership aims to reshape how high-level performing arts training is accessed beyond the capital.

Under the agreement, both institutions will collaborate on a series of initiatives, including the introduction of a Regional Audition Hub for North East applicants and the delivery of intensive workshops in Sunderland led by ArtsEd’s industry-experienced tutors. These initiatives will provide young performers with clearer, more supported routes into professional-level training.

The partnership comes at a pivotal moment for the UK’s creative industries, as demand continues to grow for diverse, highly skilled performers across stage and screen. Together, ArtsEd and Arts North Studios are committed to nurturing the next generation of talent while maintaining strong regional identity and community connection.

Professor Louise Jackson, Principal of ArtsEd, said:
“We are delighted to formalise our relationship with Arts North Studios. At ArtsEd, we firmly believe that world-class training should be accessible to all who have the talent and dedication to pursue it. Sunderland has a rich cultural heartbeat, and this partnership ensures that the exceptional potential within the North East is recognised, supported, and connected directly to the industry.”

Annie Guy, Principal of Arts North Studios, added:
“As someone who grew up in the North East and trained at ArtsEd myself, this partnership is deeply personal. Bringing top-tier training and industry expertise to the region is something I am incredibly passionate about.”

“Partnering with an institution as prestigious as ArtsEd not only validates the remarkable talent we see in our studios every day, but also strengthens our role as a leading performing arts college in the North East.”

“This collaboration levels the playing field for young performers in our region. It represents a promise of opportunity, allowing students to train at the highest level while remaining connected to their roots. It is a monumental moment for Arts North Studios and for the city of Sunderland.”

About ArtsEd

Based in Chiswick, London, ArtsEd is a world-renowned centre of excellence for performing arts training. With a history spanning more than 100 years, the institution offers specialist programmes in Musical Theatre and Acting and is recognised for producing graduates who go on to lead successful careers across theatre, film, and television worldwide.

About Arts North Studios

Located in the heart of Sunderland’s Cultural Quarter, Arts North Studios is the North East’s premier performing arts college. The college is dedicated to empowering the next generation of performers with the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to succeed in professional theatre and beyond. With a faculty of experienced West End practitioners, Arts North Studios provides expert training in acting, singing, and dance and operates as a flagship initiative developed in partnership with Culture Quarter and in collaboration with Sunderland College.

When Benjamin Perry walked through the doors of ArtsEd as a Sixth Former, he couldn’t have imagined the path ahead. From his formative years at ArtsEd, to two years performing in the Original West End Cast of The Book of Mormon, and now as a Senior Netflix Studio Executive, Ben’s inspiring journey shows how creative education can build skills that last a lifetime. 

Finding a home at ArtsEd 

At 16, Ben left his home in Wales to join ArtsEd. “The pace was so full-on, at times overwhelming,” he remembers. “But it was also the first time I was surrounded by like-minded people. The moment you walked into the building, you felt something special.” 

Behind the scenes, there were sacrifices. His mum remortgaged the house and he worked three jobs. A scholarship from the BBC Performing Arts Fund helped make his training possible. “Without that, I couldn’t have trained there. That support changed everything for me.” 

Stepping into the spotlight 

ArtsEd became the foundation of Ben’s adult life. He recalls his final year with mixed emotions: “It really felt like the end of an era when I left. But at the same time, I felt like I was on the cusp of something I’d been working on for a long time.” 

His final shows included Curtains, where he played romantic lead Aaron Fox, Footloose and Grand Hotel. “It marked the first time I was exposing myself in a professional context. Up until then, I had been coached; now suddenly I was being judged. On top of that, I wanted to do right by myself, the school, and the people who had invested in me emotionally and financially. That weight was very real.” 

Shortly after graduating ArtsEd’s BA Musical Theatre degree in 2011, Ben signed with Curtis Brown and began auditioning. A highlight came quickly: joining the Original West End Cast of The Book of Mormon. “I wasn’t destined to be a swing, but the training I had at ArtsEd, including the swing module, meant I could do it. Without that, I wouldn’t have survived the job,” he recalls. 

He went on to spend two years performing in the show, an unforgettable highlight of his early career. Yet what stayed with him most was the realisation that his passion lay not in the spotlight itself, but in the art form as a whole. 

From stage to studio 

That realisation became the turning point. His curiosity about the wider industry grew, and he began to explore life beyond performing. “The transfer was not an overnight thing,” he admitted. “I knew I wanted to be part of something, but I didn’t know exactly where I wanted to go. But I also felt confident that what was meant for me wouldn’t pass me by.” 

That trust came from ArtsEd. Training had given him the confidence to learn quickly and adapt, even in unfamiliar situations. Combined with the strong work ethic instilled in performing arts school, it gave him the courage to step outside performance and into new directions. 

Those lessons proved invaluable when Ben joined Netflix over five years ago. “My job now is very high-pressured. We invest millions in productions, and I’m the person companies come to when something isn’t working.” The ability to stay composed and think on his feet, he says, is rooted in what he learned at ArtsEd. 

Whether reviewing stunts, managing VFX, or troubleshooting on set, Ben draws daily on the adaptability and people skills built during his training. Actors, he reflects, often underestimate their transferable skills, yet “communication, leadership and managing pressure are more important than any technical training in my job today.” 

Paying it forward 

Ben’s global role has also opened doors for him to give back. In Johannesburg, he worked with Chocolate Tribe, a South African VFX and animation studio that runs a festival attracting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds into the industry. Reflecting on the experience, he says: “I was really lucky to be a part of that and to find a way to pay things forward.”  

Words of advice 

To students and new graduates, Ben’s advice is simple but powerful: “Be innovative, be resilient, and listen to your gut. Training sets you up for a long and sustainable career, but success doesn’t only mean standing centre stage. There are many other paths where you can find creativity and fulfilment.” 

The power of performing arts training 

Looking back, Ben describes the most valuable part of his training as resilience and the ability to understand people. “Drama school teaches you universality, putting yourself in other people’s shoes, and I have to do that every day to get the job done.” 

And what makes ArtsEd unique? “It brings people from all walks of life together and gives them the same high-quality training. Its superpower is helping you discover your own unique selling point before sending you out into the world to flourish.” 

For Ben Perry, those lessons have carried him from the West End to the global stage. His journey shows the power of performing arts education, not only in creating extraordinary performers, but in shaping confident, adaptable people who carry those skills into every part of life.