A MALVERN student has made it a step closer to fulfilling her dream of performing on the West End after she secured a place at one of the country’s leading arts academies.
Malvern St James Girls’ youngster Grace Harris has gained a coveted place at The Urdang Academy in London to study Musical Theatre and begins her training today (Wednesday).
Urdang is recognised as one of the UK’s finest performing arts colleges, with an international reputation with more than 95 per cent of recent graduates working in the industry – many in leading West End roles. It offers 30 foundation places and has approximately 1,500 applicants each year vying for a place.
A delighted Grace said: “I was overjoyed when I received my offer from Urdang – all my hard work had paid off. I can’t wait to start my training.”
Grace is certainly no stranger to the stage in Malvern having performed numerous stage roles in the town. One included the role of Nancy in Malvern Theatres Young Company’s production of Oliver at Malvern Theatres last year.
Her mum, Debbie Barton added: “We are delighted with Grace’s success in securing a place at The Urdang Academy in London and very excited to see her fulfil her dream of becoming a Musical Theatre actor.
“She has worked tirelessly over the past three years, juggling her academic work along with vocal and dance classes every week, as well as auditioning all over the country at Performing Arts Colleges to secure her place. We are immensely proud of her.”
