Wigan performing arts students secure top UK drama and dance school places

Performing arts students at Wigan and Leigh College are celebrating offers from some of the UK’s most prestigious drama and dance schools after a successful year of performances and auditions.

Fresh from their end-of-year show, Curtain Calls: From Broadway to the West End, at The Edge in Wigan, teens have secured places at leading conservatoires and universities, with many receiving multiple offers.

Level 3 acting student Diwani Pampila received offers from some of the country's most respected drama schools and will now progress to Guildford School of Acting, whose alumni include Olivier Award-winning actress Celia Imrie and many stars of stage and screen.

Diwani said: "The course is eye-opening – it's not just about performing but understanding the industry and employability too.

"I hadn't been introduced to singing and dance when I started, but thanks to the tutors I'm now comfortable in those disciplines.

“My confidence has grown so much, and the friends I made here helped me believe in myself.

"I've improved my technical skills, particularly in monologues, and performing both classical and pantomime pieces strengthened my connection to characters and helped me perform with confidence."

Wigan and Leigh College is the region's largest creative arts and performance learning hub, with students training in industry-standard facilities at the Centre for Excellence in Creative and Performing Arts.

Throughout the year, students take part in major productions, dance showcases, pantomimes and live performances while developing the skills needed for careers across theatre, television, dance and the wider creative industries.

Level 3 Dance student Claudia also secured a string of impressive offers, including places at London Studio Centre, Italia Conti and Addict Dance Academy.

She has chosen Addict Dance Academy as her first-choice destination, where she will continue developing her skills across a range of dance styles and work towards her ambition of performing in the West End.

Reflecting on her time at college, Claudia said: "Getting to perform in front of Sir Ian McKellen was incredible.

“I've loved taking part in all the shows.

"The college has been amazing. I had little confidence when I started, but the support from tutors and friends has really pushed me on.

"My singing and acting skills have improved massively, and that helped me go into auditions feeling confident and able to show my range."

Fellow student Alex Lockett also received offers from leading institutions including the Institute of the Arts Barcelona, Italia Conti and Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, highlighting another successful year for the college's Performing Arts students as they take the next step towards professional careers.