Winner of the BBC television series 'I'd do Anything', Jodie Prenger and former Emmerdale star, Tom Lister, have recently been rehearsing for The Watermill Theatre's latest show, 'Calamity Jane', at Newbury College. The company of actor-musicians has been using the College's state of the art theatre space to prepare for the show that runs at The Watermill during the summer.
Newbury College has recently launched its new IGCSE and A Level programme with a real focus in performing arts. The College will be offering GCSE in Performing Arts and A Level in Drama and Theatre studies from September.
Both Jodie and Tom, who didn't have the opportunity to take drama at school, are delighted that the College will be offering performing arts and theatre studies. Jodie said: "It's a no brainer. Acting is an excellent way to build confidence and allows you to express yourself!" Tom added: "Everyone leads such busy lives these days; acting takes you away and provides a great distraction. It's about listening and reacting to one another and working together as a team".
The College will be working in partnership with The Watermill Theatre and The Corn Exchange in order to support students and provide them with valuable experience.
Theatre Assistant at The Watermill Theatre, Neil Bull, who chose to rehearse at the College's facilities and said "It has been wonderful being here at Newbury College in the Forum space. With a cast of 13 professional actor-musicians rehearsing a show like Calamity Jane, the space has been an ideal size with the added bonus of a sprung floor and mirrors. Added to that, the staff have been so helpful and supportive".
'Calamity Jane' is at The Watermill Theatre until Saturday 6 September and then tours the UK. Visit www.watermill.org.uk or http://www.calamityjanetheshow.com/ to book tickets or for more information.