On May 11th when I opened my email saying I was accepted into the National Youth Theatre I was shaking with excitement. I am so grateful for this amazing opportunity to be given a place on their acting course which takes place over the summer; when completed I will be an official NYT member, with access to castings and further training.
The audition process consisted of two rounds, one self-tape in which I had to perform a monologue and answer questions then I was called back for the second round which was a live zoom audition. I performed Helena’s monologue from Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and was interviewed by my auditioner, who was incredibly kind and encouraging. He re-directed my monologue and challenged me to set this Shakespearean piece in a restaurant. Traditionally, this scene is set in a forest, but performing it in a totally new setting opened my imagination and inspired a completely different piece.
Acting is one of my greatest passions. Ever since the Year 6 play in my prep school, I have loved drama and acting; I love exploring the nuances in complex characters, the art of theatre and storytelling. Queen’s Gate has given me the opportunity to strengthen this great passion of mine. I have taken part in house drama, school plays, and helped to direct the LIV play. The Drama Department has always been so encouraging and helpful, staying after school and even in the holidays to help me with monologues. I am extremely grateful to them. Thank you, Ms Arthur, Mrs Pajovic and Ms Doolan for being simply awesome!
Written by Aria Singh-Bernath