Performers College Alumni Louis Gaunt takes on the role of Bert in Mary Poppins in the West End

Louis Gaunt is currently taking on the role of Bert in Mary Poppins in London’s West End. He makes history as the first global majority performer to play this principal role in any production worldwide.

Louis graduated in 2018 and since then has had an extremely diverse career in theatre and TV as well as winning The Stage Debut Award for best actor in a musical for his professional debut performance of Will Parker in Oklahoma! Some of his most recent credits include: Lord Lumly in season two of Netflix’s Bridgerton, Theo in Piaf (Nottingham Playhouse) and Kenicke in Grease (National Tour).

Louis had this to say about playing this iconic role:

“I can really relate to Bert as a person, He is someone who appreciates the small things in life, and he takes an investment in relationships and that’s something that I am definitely really passionate about. I’ve not done a musical for over two years so making sure I’m as fit as possible so that I can do eight shows a week is important, but the journey you get to go on through the rehearsal process is amazing, especially when it gets to the point where we’re finally performing in front of an audience.”

Performers College Essex Principal, Tracey Lee, shares her thoughts on Louis’ success”

“Louis is an inspiration to Performers College students and the next generation who desire a career in the Performing Arts Sector. Starting college as an exceptional dancer, Louis was always keen to improve his singing and acting skills so that upon graduation he would be the best version of himself and fully prepared for the industry. It goes without saying that we knew Louis was ‘a star in the making’ and we congratulate him on his success to date. We will have a keen interest in his Performing Arts journey and cannot wait to see what he does next!”