04.04.2025
We were delighted to welcome ArtsEd graduates Emily Lane (Sixth Form 2017, BA Musical Theatre 2020), Samuel Creasey (BA Acting 2020), and Kelvin Ade (MA Acting 2021) back to the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Theatre on Thursday, 27 March, at 7pm, for an inspiring evening discussing their journeys since graduating.
Hosted by Maame Atuah, Head of Short Courses & Outreach, the conversation explored each panellist’s experiences at ArtsEd—from their first audition to their final performance—and their exciting careers over the past few years.
Emily Lane reflected on her experiences performing alongside Imelda Staunton in Hello Dolly!, discussing valuable lessons she carried forward from ArtsEd into her role as Anna in Frozen, and emphasised the importance of continuous training and growth after graduation. Kelvin Ade shared fascinating insights into his current theatre debut in Three Sisters at Shakespeare’s Globe, highlighting the differences between preparing for stage roles and his on-screen experiences, such as in SAS Rogue Heroes and The Regime. Samuel Creasey provided an engaging perspective on his rehearsal process for A Winter’s Tale at Shakespeare’s Globe, where he portrayed the Young Shepherd in his native Welsh accent, and how this role reignited his passion for magic during his involvement in Derren Brown’s Unbelievable.
“It was incredibly useful for the students to get guidance from successful alumni on how they were navigating the industry and getting high quality work. The panellists were very generous with their insights, especially about the casting process, the importance of identifying with the character, and practical ways to do this.”
Jake Harders, Head of Acting at ArtsEd
The evening concluded with an interactive Q&A session, providing current students the chance to seek direct advice from the panel. The alumni generously shared valuable insights and practical wisdom, reinforcing ArtsEd’s commitment to nurturing and investing in our students’ futures.
Events like this underline ArtsEd’s dedication to celebrating and strengthening connections within our community. They inspire current students through the remarkable achievements of our alumni, fostering ongoing relationships and celebrating our graduates’ outstanding journeys in the performing arts industry.
“The In Conversation With event at ArtsEd was a truly inspiring occasion to hear wise, witty and practical advice from successful alumni. It was such a pleasure to welcome them back to the school, listen to their achievements and to learn about their strategies for striving and thriving in the industry. The current students got so much out of it and were thrilled to meet them afterwards and continue the conversation.”
George Richmond-Scott, MA Acting Course Leader at ArtsEd“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended this insightful evening—the first in our exciting new In Conversation With… Alumni series. Your continued support means so much, and we look forward to welcoming you to our next event very soon.”
Susie Butt, Head of Development at ArtsEd
