Ripon Grammar School student Izzy Kirby has won a place at a leading musical theatre college.
The 16-year-old was among the youngest students to gain a place on the highly acclaimed three-year musical theatre course at SLP (Studios La Pointe) College in Leeds.
The course, equivalent to a higher education degree, usually attracts 18-year-olds who have already achieved a foundation course qualification in technique and performance.
Izzy, who will play the role of Babette in next month’s RGS production of Beauty and the Beast, has worked hard to reach the required entry level, beginning her training at The Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts in Darlington seven years ago.
For the past four years, she has attended Ripon’s Upstage Academy outside school and will play the starring role of Tracy in the performing arts school’s summer production of Hairspray.
Izzy, said:
“My first love is acting but I know that training as an all-round performer is crucial nowadays and a place at SLP will be a great grounding for a career in this industry.”
Her audition consisted of solo singing, dance classes and acting workshops.
Read more:
- Ripon councillors call for extension of Barracks development consultation
- Still no opening date for Ripon’s new swimming pool
She was expecting to hear back two-weeks later, but received an email the next day offering her a place on the three-year diploma course.
Izzy, who is currently working towards her London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art grades 6, 7 and 8 acting qualifications, says her dream roles include Sophie in Mamma Mia, Velma in Chicago or the title role of Mary Poppins in the musical.
As well as receiving one-to-one singing lessons at SLP, she will have the opportunity to work with guest teachers, directors and choreographers.
Recent graduates have gone on to work in musicals including Wicked, Beautiful, The Lion King and Bat Out of Hell.
