Backstage Buzz: October 2025
Welcome to your monthly roundup of what’s going on at Performers College, from student and graduate success to on-campus events and achievements. Are you ready for the Backstage Buzz?
Industry Masterclasses Inspire Students Across Campuses
Our students have benefited from exceptional learning opportunities this month, with visits from several accomplished industry professionals. Film, TV and Stage actor, Morgan Watkins, recently worked with our Level 4 acting students in Birmingham for an industy masterclass, with the first-year cohort making an impressive start under his guidance.
The dance department in Essex also received expert tuition. Campus Dean, Emma Rogers, held a choreography workshop with our students, bringing her wealth of professional experience directly into the classroom.
Choreographer Shay Barclay, known for his work on Snow White, Bad Education, and Wonka, shared valuable insights on dancing for film – knowledge that will prove invaluable as our students develop their screen work.
Acclaimed actor Madeline Appiah visited our acting students to discuss the importance of maintaining professionalism on set, offering practical advice that resonated strongly with the cohort.
In Manchester, our third-year students worked with choreographer Joseph Poulton (Disney’s Aladdin, My Fair Lady, Cats) to prepare for their November show. Poulton praised the students’ dedication and commitment, noting that the piece is shaping up wonderfully.
On-Screen Success
This month, we celebrated some exciting screen work from our community. Essex Careers Manager, Leanne, appeared in the new Netflix film, Steve, starring Cillian Murphy, playing the role of Helen. It’s wonderful to see our Creative Futures team not only guiding students through their careers but actively working in the industry themselves – a true testament to the calibre of professionals we have on staff.
Graduate Success Stories
Our graduates have secured roles in several high-profile productions this month. Four graduates (Annabel Denton, Emily Grimsey, Jasmine Fowler, and Sophie Dennis) will be appearing in the Thursford Christmas Spectacular this season.
Additionally, four Performers College graduates (Annie Knight, Barney Hudson, Kyle Seeley, Nikki Bentley) have been confirmed in the cast and creative team for The Greatest Showman, which will premiere at Bristol Hippodrome in 2026. Read more
Northern Ballet School Students Compete Internationally
This month, Heather Lyon, Lilly Burton, and Rose Maskill from Northern Ballet School competed at the prestigious Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition in Brazil. Their selection for this competition reflected their exceptional artistry, dedication, and technical prowess. Watch their journey on TikTok – Part 1 and Part 2
To discover more about Performers College, including auditions and how to apply, contact us at [email protected] or you can Apply Now, or book an Open Day on our Events page.
