Ayckbourn speaks out on new northern actor training

Added: (Thu Jun 27 2002)

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SIR ALAN SPEAKS OUT IN SUPPORT OF NEW NORTHERN ACTOR TRAINING

World-renowned playwright and director Sir Alan Ayckbourn has spoken out in support of a newly-launched full-time training for actors in his adopted home town of Scarborough.

The HND Theatre (Acting) course runs at the former Stephen Joseph Theatre in the Round, which was Sir Alan’s theatre base for twenty-one years. Thirteen student actors are currently observing Sir Alan’s rehearsal of a revival of his 1978 hit “Joking Apart”, and will follow the production from first readthrough to opening night.

Sir Alan says:

“I am wholeheartedly behind this HND Theatre Acting course. It offers vital opportunities for students to learn and practise those predominently practical skills and disciplines, hopefully to prepare them for a full-time career.”

The strong links between the theatre and the course are also commented on by Sir Alan:

“Closely allied as the course is to our own SJT Theatre here in Scarborough, it also gives students unique insights into the day to day running of a working theatre in its broadest sense.”

The hands-on nature of the training is also draws comment:

“It emphasises what I have always believed, that Theatre is primarily practical and not theoretical.”

Sir Alan feels that a modern actor training needs a strong classical element. This is happening: the current student group includes an ex-welder who has just played Puck in a production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream". There is also an ex-Marine on the course.

Places are still available for September 2002 entry. Unlike at many drama schools, auditions are free of charge, and, uniquely, they take place before a panel which includes professional casting director Sarah Hughes.

For further information contact Paul Elsam, Couse Leader, at Yorkshire Coast College on (01723) 361960.