Mya — Acting Foundation Degree
There’s so many places a course like this can take you.
Mya — HE Acting —
Mya, 19, joined the College on the Level 3 Acting Diploma and progressed to the Acting Foundation Degree, which she’s currently studying at the College’s brand new City Hub.
We chatted to her about her passion for performing arts, what she enjoys about her College course, the challenges of lockdown and her future ambitions. Here’s what she told us:
“I’d love to become an actor one day. I realise it’s a difficult industry to break into, but that’s why this course is so good – because you get to learn a whole range of skills; not just TV and film, but also radio, contemporary and classical theatre, as well as backstage stuff like costume, set design, lighting and sound.
“At the moment I’m learning how to market a performance. It’s out of my comfort zone but the challenge has been great. It’s been useful to experience a different aspect of the industry and I’ve gained lots of new skills.”
Why did you choose College over university or Drama school?
“After doing the Level 3 Diploma at College, I soon realised that this was where I wanted to continue my higher-level studies. The lecturers are so supportive and have loads of industry experience. The transition was super easy. There was no need to apply through UCAS and the process was really quick.”
Opportunities
“I played the lead role in a play at The Nottingham Playhouse, in front of 200 people, during my Diploma. It was such an amazing experience! I’ve also performed at the College’s Theatre and I’m excited to get the chance to perform on stage at the College’s brand new Fletchers Theatre when it opens later this year.
“Our lecturer has some brilliant contacts which has led to some really cool industry visitors, and there’s always trips planned to theatre performances and shows. Hopefully now that restrictions are easing, visits like this will be able to start up again.”
Lockdown challenges
“We’ve gone from online learning on Teams and dancing and performing from home in our bedrooms to being back on campus with our classmates. It’s been a challenge and we’ve all had to adapt, but our lecturer has been so great. She goes above and beyond. Always on-hand to help, and really open and approachable.”
What do you enjoy about the course?
“I’m not the most academic learner; I’m more hands-on and creative so this course really suits me.
“I love how it helps me learn about myself and I enjoy the reaction of the audience and the appreciation you receive. The adrenalin that runs through your veins when the lights shut down and you know there’s a huge audience waiting to see you perform – there’s no better feeling.”
The goal
“The dream is to work in TV but I know that if I don’t make it, there are so many other opportunities and I’d be really happy working in any part of the performing arts industry.”
Interested in a creative career like Mya?