As we approach the end of 2020 and what has been a challenging year for all, we’re ready to round off our Centenary celebrations – recognising the incredible history of ArtsEd and its contribution to the performing arts industry.

In this video, ArtsEd alumni Stephen Whitson discusses his training experience in the early 2000s which led to an international career as an actor and now life as a director.

As Associate Director for Hamilton in London’s West End, Stephen knows a thing or two about staging a musical, which is very handy for our current cohort of third year MT students as he directs their upcoming production of Ragtime!

We’re thrilled that Stephen is back in the building, working with our students. Below is the video we made with him earlier in the year as part of our Centenary celebrations.

“Without ArtsEd, we can’t make shows like Hamilton or the numerous diverse types of art that populate the West End, and it’s the people that come out of ArtsEd that allow us to make the best quality art that we possibly can.” – Stephen Whitson

Stephen’s Credits

Recent Theatre Directing credits include: West Side Story (BBC Proms, Royal Albert Hall & Edinburgh International Festival, Usher Hall); You Forgot The Mince – a new play by Francesca Joy (Edinburgh Festival/UK Tour 2017); Benighted by J.B. Priestley (World Premiere, London – Winter 2016) [Off West End Award Nomination – Best Director]; You Forgot The Mince (UK Tour 2016); The Last Five Years (The Lyric Theatre, Belfast), Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens (Criterion Theatre, London), Little Women (Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham), Return To The Forbidden Planet (SWG3, Glasgow), Stephen Sondheim’s Putting It Together (The Lyric Theatre, Belfast), Dubailand (Finborough Theatre), If Only… by Michel Tremblay (Bread & Roses Theatre, London), Circuit Breaker (Timewave Festival, London), The Wizard of Oz (St. Ives Theatre, Cornwall), Cross Purpose by Albert Camus (King’s Head Theatre, London) and Jubilee Street (Theatre503, London).

Film Directing credits include: Loved Before (Music Video – Eighty8 Films), Da (2019 Release – Rare Moustache/Crixus/Criaglockhart Road Productions), The Trip (Short/London Sci-Fi Festival 2014), 13 (Short/Rare Moustache) and Shooting Star (Music Video/The Big Bads).

Associate/Assistant Director credits include: Hamilton (Associate Director – Victoria Palace Theatre, London – West End), 42nd Street (Associate Director – Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, London – West End), Barnum (Cameron Mackintosh/Michael Harrison/UK Tour), From Here To Eternity (West End, 2014 Cinema Release), Private Lives (Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh), La Fanciulla del West (Opera Holland Park), RENT (Greenwich Theatre), Noye’s Fludde by Benjamin Britten (Aldeburgh Music Festival/BBC), What You Will (The Globe Theatre/London 2012 Festival), While The Sun Shines (Top Goat Productions, Lion & Unicorn Theatre), One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest (LOST Theatre).

ArtsEd Principal, Chris Hocking, has been appointed as the new Chair to the Board of Trustees of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (ISTD). He was elected to the position by the Council after the Society’s 2020 AGM on 18 November. 

Formally trained at the Nesta Brooking School of Ballet, studying Cecchetti Ballet and National, Chris enjoyed a successful performing and choreography career with West End shows such as Chicago, Carousel, The King and I, The Rocky Horror Show and much more. His career saw him direct and choreograph numerous pantomimes around the country which led to him being awarded an MA in Choreography from Middlesex University. Chris has also been awarded the Fellowship of the British and International Federation of Festivals, is Chair of all England Dance, and a Head Judge for Dance World Cup. 

Chris began his career in performing arts education in 1992 as Head of Performing Arts at Centro Internazionale De Danza in Cosenza, Italy. He was Head of Dance at Mountview Academy of Performing Arts from 1993 to 1999, when he joined ArtsEd as Director of Musical Theatre and Head of Dance. He was appointed Principal in 2017. 

On the announcement of his appointment, Chris Hocking said: 

“In my journey from a young boy taking ISTD Primary Tap, through to a teenager passing the ISTD Cecchetti Associate Exam with Distinction, I am now currently the Principal at ArtsEd, one the UK’s oldest and most well-known performing arts institutes. I have dedicated my life and career to dance and its associated genres by performing in West End shows, teaching in vocational Dance/Musical Theatre/Drama schools, choreographing major productions, adjudicating Dance Festivals around the world, increasing representation in Dance of people from diverse backgrounds and being involved in charitable activities for the world of Dance. I relish the prospect and honour of being Chair of the Society in this challenging and thought-provoking time, as Benjamin Franklin said “out of adversity comes opportunity.” 

Chief Executive of Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance, Ginny Brown said: 

“It is my absolute pleasure to welcome Chris as the new Chair of Council. Chris brings to this role a wealth of experience as a performer and Principal of one of the country’s leading vocational schools. I know that he shares my commitment to diversity in the dance sector and I am looking forward to working with Chris to maximize the future impact of the Society.” 

Photo Credit: Robin Savage

ArtsEd have created two, free short courses designed to assist young people from backgrounds that are consistently under-represented in the arts, in the drama school application process. The three-day courses in Acting and Musical Theatre Audition Preparation are aimed at young people aged 17 and over who identify as Black, East Asian, South Asian or any other under-represented Ethnic and Cultural group.

Focusing on building skills and confidence for drama school auditions in 2020/21, students will work with ArtsEd’s expert teaching staff alongside visiting industry professionals.

At the end of the intensive courses, full of useful and practical advice, students will be given the opportunity to showcase their skills in a mock panel audition and receive valuable feedback.

The courses have been created as part of ArtsEd’s ongoing commitment to widen participation, building on existing schemes that address issues of access. These include audition fee waivers for students from low-income households, an increasing number of bursaries and scholarships, and participation in the Dance and Drama Award (DaDA) provision.

Director of the School of Acting, Julie Spencer, said:

“We want to reach all young people who are interested in a career in the performing arts. Our new courses aim to introduce drama training to young people who may never had considered it before.”

ArtsEd’s Principal, Chris Hocking, said:

“At ArtsEd we’re passionate about attracting the very best young people to our courses in terms of their raw talent and potential. It’s vital that drama school training is accessible to all who would benefit from it, and our new courses demonstrate our commitment to reaching those who are currently under-represented in our industry.”

The latest round of these courses take place from 14 to 16 December 2020. Places are awarded via an online application form, which can be found here

Application deadline is Tuesday 8 December.

Earlier this month, Samantha Marsden from The Stage wrote a feature about how schools and colleges have managed to reimagine training for the Covid era. Heads of UK performing arts schools shared how they have combined online and in-person learning, as well as ensuring safety procedures are met in the building. Our Day School & Sixth Form Headteacher Adrian Blake and Director of ArtsEd Sixth Form Mark Ferrington both featured in the article, discussing the ways in which training has adapted at ArtsEd.

Adrian Blake discussed the practical ways in which the school has implemented safety measures:

“We remobilised for years 10 and 12 in July, having worked closely with health-and-safety specialists to open in the safest way possible.

“This important period enabled the team to ‘learn about learning’ in the Covid era, and informed how the full remobilisation would take shape: with enhanced deep-cleaning protocols, regular microbial fogging (an antibacterial mist that renders surfaces safe for weeks at a time), automated temperature checks on entry, high-vis signage and positive reinforcement to maintain social distancing.

“There are one-way systems, more than 40 hand-sanitation stations and a new school day model that means students travelling to and from ArtsEd avoid the rush-hour commuter crush on public transport. This also limits the contact between the student bubbles.

“In class, students wear visors for singing lessons, there are safety screens in one-to-one singing rooms and the hub where students go for learning support. Masks are worn in all communal areas and there have been daily reminders to students and weekly updates to parents that have meant that everyone has been singing from the same hymn sheet. A full curriculum has been in place since September 1, as well as a wide range of after-school classes and extra-curricular options for students from years 7 to 13.”

Meanwhile, Mark Ferrington discussed how Bubbles have worked during this time:

“In instances where individuals or groups are required to go home (if displaying symptoms or awaiting test results) we quickly switch to an extensive virtual curriculum, which includes all vocational lessons – singing, dance and drama. These lessons can successfully be run online alongside any academic A-level lessons students may be taking. The virtual curriculum is delivered via a combination of Google Classroom and Zoom.”

To read the article in full, please click here.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Denys Rawson, renowned Music Director and, since 1998, Repertoire Tutor for the School of Musical Theatre.  

 A successful Music Director for many years, Denys worked in both West End and touring productions including Oliver! (when Cameron Mackintosh was Stage Manager), Gypsy, Evita and in 1990, Carousel, starring our very own Chris Hocking and Phil Sutton.  

Denys began teaching at ArtsEd in 1998 and ever since he generously shared, with students and staff alike, his rich industry knowledge and expertise.     

ArtsEd Alumnus Gary Jerry talks about Denys’ natural flair as an accompanist:  

“For auditions, performance classes and singing assessments, Denys was always the person you wanted accompanying you. He was always so attentive to each individual performer’s needs and had the flexibility to work with the acting choices you made. Not many musical directors can create such great chemistry and connections with those they are working with the way Denys did.”  

Ann James, Singing Tutor for The School of Musical Theatre, was friends with Denys for over 40 years. She remembers touring across the UK with him for the Arts Council: 

“We performed in really obscure places around the country, and when we were touring in some rural areas in Wales, we had to do a round trip back to Pembrokeshire because one of the tenors had left his wig in a drawer! Denys was such a laugh and a really instinctive musician. You knew you were in safe hands when he was MD.”  

Denys was also a brilliant raconteur and had countless unforgettable and hilarious tales, that ArtsEd staff and graduates still reminisce upon today.  

Huw Geraint-Griffith, Head of Music for The School of Musical Theatre, remembers Denys’ infectious personality: 

“He loved a get together. I have such fond memories of him in bright and colourful shirts at 3rd year’s leaving drinks in the Summer term. You could hardly see him as he’d be surrounded by students, but you could always hear his laugh! 

A few years ago, Denys and Ann James came over for Sunday lunch. Well, between the two of them, I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so much in my life. From the moment they arrived, it was laugh-a-minute. By the end of the afternoon, I felt completely drunk, which wouldn’t have been surprising, but when I checked how many bottles we’d gone through, we’d hardly had any. He was enough of a tonic himself.  

I think that the main thing I will remember of Denys will be, that I always felt better after seeing him than I did before. I know that his students felt the same after having a lesson with him, which is what made him such a great teacher.” 

Paul Smith, former Repertoire and Music Director for both the School of Musical Theatre and the Day School talks about Denys’ influence on future generations: 

“When my stepson Jamie was eleven years old, we bumped into Denys in Richmond. Denys spent time chatting with Jamie about anything and everything, and he was so inspired at how knowledgeable and kind Denys was. All these years later, Jamie is now the Co-Director of SIX The Musical!” 

And lastly, ArtsEd Principal Chris Hocking remembers working with Denys on Carousel: 

“I first worked with Denys in 1990 at the West Yorkshire Playhouse (now The Leeds Playhouse) on a wonderful production of Carousel. He was such an inspiring Musical Director and the ensemble singing on that show was so tight because of him. When I arrived at ArtsEd in 1999 it was such a delight to be able to work with Denys again and to have the chance to re-visit Carousel with third year students. Denys’ showbiz stories were legendary and he was such a witty raconteur! I will ensure that Denys is never forgotten at ArtsEd.” 

Denys will be enormously missed by all the staff and graduates who worked with him over the years. His teaching influenced and encouraged generations of ArtsEd students and all remember him with pride.  

We are delighted to announce that ITV drama, Finding Alice is set for release early 2021. Featuring our very own Sixth Form alumna, Isabella Pappas, playing the role of Alice and Harry’s 16-year-old daughter Charlotte, the cast also stars; Keeley Hawes, Joanna Lumley, ArtsEd alumnus and Patron, Nigel Havers, Jason Merrells, Gemma Jones, Kenneth Cranham and Sharon Rooney.

Production began in January this year, with Keeley Hawes starring as Alice, a widow going through a blackly comic journey of grief after the death of her husband, Harry.

Nicola Shindler, RED Production Company CEO and executive producer said:

“To have such a strong calibre of actors join the cast alongside Keeley to breathe life into these complex characters is incredibly exciting, and I look forward to audiences meeting them.” 

Excited to see all their hard work come together, Isabella said:

“Finding Alice was an incredible experience. Working with acting legends everyday felt like a dream, and I left set each day having learned something new. The support from ArtsEd during that time made everything possible. My A Level Drama group met outside of my filming hours for our final project, allowing me to complete the course. I am so excited for everyone to see what we have created.”

Find out more about ArtsEd’s Day School & Sixth Form here.

We are delighted to announce that the builders have left and that our wonderful new building is nearly ready.  It is an impressive feat to have taken possession just eighteen months since the Studio Theatre was knocked down and we are very grateful for the patience and support of all of our students, staff and neighbours.

There is still quite a lot of work to do before we can move in fully. Final touches include colourful vinyls across all three floors, built-in desks in the new Day School & Sixth Form classrooms, workstations in the new HE Hub, signage so we don’t get lost and lastly, furniture for the wonderful new communal spaces in the Atrium.

We expect the work to be complete for the start of the Spring term in January 2021. Our current  ‘soft opening’ has students and staff enjoying classes in the new dance studios and rehearsal rooms, making sure everywhere is ready for a full timetable in the new year.

Chris Hocking, ArtsEd Principal said:

“I have been so impressed and grateful for the grace with which everyone has dealt with the disruption of the building work. I am certain that everyone will agree it was worthwhile when they come and see this wonderful addition to our Chiswick home!”

We hope that it won’t be too long before we can celebrate the creation of this fantastic new facility in person, with everyone that made it possible.  In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled for our full virtual launch in the new year.

ArtsEd are delighted to announce the appointment of David Ian to their board of trustees. 

Chief Executive of his eponymous production company, and the recipient of five Olivier awards and three Tony nominations, David is a world-renowned theatre producer with a highly successful career spanning over 30 years. Prior to his first forays in producing (collaborating with Paul Nicholas), David had a successful acting career, appearing in productions such as The Pirates of Penzance, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and The Rocky Horror Show. 

From 2005, David was Chairman and CEO of the global theatrical division of Live Nation having previously joined the group in 2000 when it was part of Clear Channel, the largest theatrical group in the world. At Live Nation, David was responsible for Broadway Across America, which produced, and toured first class Broadway shows in over 40 cities in the United States and Canada. He was simultaneously CEO of the UK division, which included over 25 theatres both in London’s West End and most regional markets in the UK. 

David Ian Productions is responsible for scores of West End, international and UK touring shows, with multiple forthcoming projects waiting in the wings, ready for when theatre emerges from Covid-19 forced closures.  

David has a long association with the school, both as a friend and valued industry connection and, more recently, as parent to ArtsEd Sixth Form and Musical Theatre degree graduate, Emily Lane. 

Of his appointment, David said: 

“I look forward to developing my long-standing connection with ArtsEd as a member of the Board of Trustees.  

 ArtsEd has long been at the forefront of exceptional performing arts training and I’m delighted to lend my support during such an exciting period in the organisation’s long history. The wonderful new extension to their Chiswick home is just one in a series of developments that include innovative changes to the curriculum and a step change in the diversity of the faculty, that will secure ArtsEd’s reputation as a centre of excellence for many years to come.”  

ArtsEd Principal, Chris Hocking said: 

“I’m thrilled at David Ian’s appointment to ArtsEd’s Board of Trustees. His position in the theatre industry as a renowned and respected producer of large-scale shows has long been cemented and we have enjoyed an association with him for many years. As well as providing a wealth of knowledge as a producer, David’s early career as a performer also means he knows what it’s like from the point of view of our students as they enter the industry. This empathetic view of all areas of the performing arts is incredibly valuable to us. His influence on our board will be instrumental as we continue to offer the very best in performing arts training the UK has to offer. I very much look forward to working with him.” 

Sunday 25 October was a night dedicated to celebrating the theatre industry both at The Black British Theatre Awards (Sky Arts) and The Olivier Awards (ITV). ArtsEd had several alumni nominated and is thrilled that two came away with winner’s trophies on the night! ArtsEd proudly sponsor the BBTA’s Mentorship Programme, an emerging scheme focussed on introducing young, black people to the theatre industry where they may not otherwise have access.

ArtsEd Musical Theatre alumna, Miriam-Teak Lee was awarded Best Actress in a Musical at both The Black British Theatre Awards and The Olivier Awards for her performance in Max Martin’s new musical, &Juliet. Miriam’s award sees her triple-crowned in 2020 as she won the WhatsOnStage award for Best Actress in a Musical in the spring.

ArtsEd Acting graduate, Rachel Nwokoro was awarded the Disability Champion Award at the Black British Theatre Awards – only one month after her win at The Stage Debut Awards for Best Performer in a Play for her performance in Little Baby Jesus at Orange Tree Theatre.

Delighted by her win at the Olivier Awards, Miriam-Teak said:

“This is absolutely incredible! My mum always said to me that I could do anything if I put my mind to it […] so I hope I can inspire children who want to get into this business, knowing they can do anything.”

Rachel gave an emotional speech at the Black British Theatre Awards, declaring repeatedly: “They can’t stop us!”, which received a standing ovation. She said:

“Thank you for all this divine love, visibility and recognition. It’s honestly such a welcome gift at a time of such fear and false scarcity… Bring on the ABUNDANCE my loves.”

ArtsEd graduates Jac Yarrow (Musical Theatre) and Zizi Strallen (Day School) were also nominated at The Oliviers for Best Actor and Actress in a Musical in a Musical respectively for their leading roles in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Mary Poppins.

Renowned lyricist, Don Black, an ArtsEd Associate Artist, received the Special Award for his outstanding contribution to theatre and was interviewed for the television broadcast with ArtsEd President, Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Congratulations to all nominees and winners!

PHOTOS: Miriam-Teak Lee (pictured left) and Rachel Nwokoro. Photo credit: The Black British Theatre Awards.