Send Alex to NYT!

My name is Alexandra Coleman and I am twenty-three years old, from Eastbourne in East Sussex. From an early age my goal has been to go to drama school and train to be an actor, however financial restrictions have in the past held me back. Unlike the majority of University courses, many drama schools have no government funding available for their students and it's not unusual for a year at drama school to cost in the region of £12000. Having been offered a place a few years ago at a London school, and despite having been offered a part scholarship, it unfortunately wasn't enough and I had to turn my place down- a heartbreaking decision.

I have since decided to in essence 'create my own training,' working full time as well as singing and teaching in the evenings and at weekends in order to pay for various workshops and dance lessons as well as my living expenses. I have had some professional work, but felt that I need to be nearer to London in order to be closer to more opportunities, so will be moving next month!

Having heard about The National Youth Theatre's new six-week course, Epic Stages, I auditioned earlier this year and was lucky enough to be offered a place.

"Epic Stages is a course for exceptional all-rounders, who want to get ahead of the competition and start making and staging their own ambitious professional theatre.

This summer over six intensive weeks Epic Stages will offer creative and professional development, with skills-based sessions from acting technique to interview technique and backstage expertise to budgeting skills. The course will be our most intensive and ambitious yet, culminating in a showcase of a new work staged and performed at the National Skills Academy's world-class Backstage Centre."

I have thankfully been awarded a bursary from NYT to go towards my course fee of £2000, however accomodation is not provided and there is no funding available for living and travel expenses. The fact that the course takes place in London means that these expenses will be considerably more expensive than if it was taking place elsewhere! And due to the intense nature of Epic Stages (hours are 10-6 Monday to Saturday, plus two evenings a week), it won't be possible to work whilst attending.

I have limited savings that I will be using, but without some extra fundraising there's a chance I will be unable to take up my place. Those who know me will understand how hard I've worked for an opportunity like this, and I feel it's something I really can't miss out on. I wouldn't have created this page if I didn't feel that it's absolutely necessary. Anything at all that you could donate- however small- would be truly, truly appreciated. If you can't help then that's ok! Thankyou so much for taking the time to read my page, and if you could pass this on to anyone you think might be able to help I would be truly grateful.

Thankyou :)

You can see details of the National Youth Theatre and the Epic Stages course here:

http://www.nyt.org.uk/