Joanne Porter, a performing arts pupil has the great privilege of participating in an acting masterclass with some of Britain‘s top TV starts. She shone among strong competition from the rest of the Province to secure a place in Cinemagic Stars, a 3 day intensive masterclass.

Joanne performing during PA exam along with Samantha Balmer

Throughout the 3 days there was training and rehearsals followed by a performance at the Waterfront Hall. It offered her the chance to learn new skills of contemporary or musical theatre from leading professional. She got the opportunity to learn advanced drama techniques from former Coronation Street actress, Surranne Jones; the ex-Hollyoaks star, Mikyla Dodd; Chris Hoyle - who appeared in The Bill and The Royal, and musical director Lee Bryn Heywood.

”I saw the advertisement for this in the Sun newspaper and that it would be taken by famous star of the small screen. I thought it seemed very interesting and completed the application form - with 200 words about myself why I would be suitable. I explained that I was a performing arts student and it was my dream to be an actress. I was delighted when I received an offer to attend the contemporary acting masterclass“.

”Through this experience I gained experience in many valuable acting skills that will help me in the future for both my exams and beyond. I learned a script and on the third day I performed which was fantastic. This masterclass has given me more confidence in acting and has encouraged me to look out for similar opportunities and I would recommend these to anyone who has an interest in performing arts“.