November 25, 2024

Taking the Lead   

Kevin Dowsett, Artistic Director of Theatretrain, reflects on the incredible journey of former students who are now making waves in the performing arts. In this blog, Taking the Lead, he celebrates Megan Ellis, an ex-student from Northampton Theatretrain, who is stepping into the lead role in the world premiere of Muriel’s Wedding at Leicester Curve. Megan’s story highlights the transformative power of theatre education and dedication.

In July, I wrote about ex-student Garardine Sacdalan, who is currently playing the lead role in @Juliet on a nationwide tour. 

Now comes another -ex-student Megan Ellis who will play the lead role in Muriel’s Wedding, the world premiere of a new musical version of the film, at the Leicester Curve.  

Megan attended Northampton Theatretrain and I spoke to John and Sue Ritter the former Company Directors. They said “Megan sang Bohemian Rhapsody at the Royal Albert Hall and blew them away!

She was a perfect student who adored singing and threw herself into everything.  She travelled a long way to come to Theatretrain and was there every week.”

Sue was sure she started in the youngest age group and said she was very well-liked and looked up to by other students.

Then I spoke to Jenny Wilson one of the current company directors at Northampton and she shared this message she had received from Megan …

“I have such wonderful memories of my time at Theatretrain. All my formative on-stage experiences and my understanding of performing started there. It’s where I learnt self-confidence, discipline and generosity on stage. I had such brilliant teachers, and joyful on-stage moments that really confirmed to me that this was what I wanted so desperately to do. 

I can only say a huge thank you to everyone at Theatretrain and Theatretrain Northampton specifically, for giving me such a beautiful beginning and for providing opportunities to perform, and spaces to grow for so many young people across the country.”

It may seem an obvious thing to say but over the years I’ve noticed that the best performers have generosity and humility. They know it’s not just about them and they are often the first to acknowledge other people. It’s that ability to be genuinely interested in other people on stage as well that sets them out as a truly great performer.

We wish you all the best Megan.

Theatretrain, a nationwide provider of weekend theatre schools for young people aged 4-18, specialises in weekly classes in acting, singing, and dancing. An emphasis is placed on learning valuable life skills such as confidence, empathy, courage, and resilience. If you know a child who loves to dance, act and sing or could do with a little confidence boost why not visit to find out what our performing arts classes can offer your child at one of our 80 locations across the UK.

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