Performing Arts Academy students win accolades from theatre professionals

New City College students took centre stage at the Queen’s Theatre this week for an inspiring Performing Arts Academy Competition, where they performed to a panel of industry professionals and a packed live audience.

Students from Epping Forest, Ardleigh Green and Havering Sixth Form campuses competed in the evening showcase that celebrated creativity and confidence. Acts ranged from solo vocalists and musicians to duets, dance, drama, musical theatre and original performances, creating a varied and vibrant programme.

The judging panel included five established professionals from across the performing arts industry. These experienced actors and singers assessed the students on technique, performance quality, expression, creativity and variety, with each performer receiving detailed written feedback.

This level of personalised, professional critique is a rare opportunity in the industry and provided invaluable guidance to help students refine their acts and look confidently towards their future careers.

Louiza Williamson, Senior Curriculum Manager for Performing Arts at Ardleigh Green, said: “It was wonderful to give students the opportunity to perform in front of such a varied and professional panel, who are all highly successful performers. The students will benefit greatly from this experience and the tailored feedback they received.”

The judging panel were:

• Singer Lydia Lucy, a finalist on The X Factor and The Voice. She offered practical advice on managing stage nerves and vocal breathing techniques.
• West End performer Michelle Pentecost, who played Elphaba in Wicked and is currently touring in the show Defying Gravity. She praised the students’ courage and passion, and told them that determination is key in a competitive industry.
• Creative Producer and Skin London founder Vicki Jackson, who encouraged students to make the most of industry support.
• Writer and director Antoinette Jackman, who gave excellent feedback and advice on resilience and perseverance.
• Producer, director, actor and writer Peter Dayson, who described the standard of the competition as exceptionally high, and said how difficult it was to choose an overall winner.

First place was awarded to vocalist Jelavie Ewowo, a Music Performance student from Havering Sixth Form Campus. Her standout performance earned her a personalised one-to-one mentoring session with a member of the judging panel, along with £100 in vouchers.

Jelavie said: “Thank you to everyone at college that has supported and helped me. My confidence to perform on stage has improved so much. My tutors have been brilliant and I also want to thank my mum.”

Second place went to Summer Sorenson, who studies A Level Drama and Theatre at Havering Sixth Form. She received a £75 voucher after delivering a powerful monologue performance.

The competition not only celebrated achievement but also reinforced the NCC Performing Arts Academy’s commitment to giving students live experiences, professional connections and feedback to help them grow as performers.

Do you dream of being on stage?

New City College offers Performing Arts courses taught by experienced teachers which are designed to develop talent, confidence and skills for careers in the industry.

If you’re passionate about performance and want to learn in an environment that develops creativity and provides opportunities, apply now and start your journey with New City College.