Meet Felisha-Grace Kiarango
As part of Central’s Big Give Christmas Challenge, we’re speaking to students and alumni who have received Scholarships and Bursaries whilst studying at Central, to showcase the impact that these can have on them, and their future careers.
Felisha-Grace Kiarango is a first year student on our BA (Hons) Acting Collaborative and Devised Theatre (CDT) course. She spoke with us about the first few weeks of her training, the impact that a Scholarship has had on her studies, and her words of advice for those hoping to follow in her footsteps.
What made you choose to study at Central?
I chose to study at Central because of the CDT course. The reason I wanted to do this course is because I love the versatility it offers, as well as the freedom to be able to explore different practitioners, ways of working, and most importantly knowing how to be an effective individual within an ensemble. Central is the only drama school that offers this course, and so in that sense there was not really any other choice for me!
What has surprised you most about studying at Central?
How quick the time goes! I cannot believe that I am already halfway through the first term. But also, how much is available to me during these initial stages. From the very beginning, you are swept into the world that is Central, which means everything and anything you need is there for you from the get-go.
I have only been training for a couple of weeks now, but have already seen the positive affects it has had on me. Central are very adamant about the trainees bringing themselves to work; a skill that should be taught universally
What does a typical working day look like for you at the moment?
My day begins at 8 am, as I like to come in early and use the hour before class to get ready. This may include doing some work, but mostly consists of me having a dance with my headphones in. Lessons run from 9am to 1pm, with an hour lunch, and then resuming from 2pm to 6pm. Then I am off home to either do some more work, or have another dance session…
You received a Scholarship, what impact has this had on you and your studies?
The scholarship has given me more than just the opportunity to finance my study. It has given me reassurance that I am on the right path, and that I am supported along this journey. It is quite easy to have doubts, especially when you are following a passion wholeheartedly but to be given a scholarship, was like the school was offering me a plate of support. Does this mean all my doubts are eradicated? No, but this helps remind me that I deserve to be in this building, and deserve to be chasing after my dreams.
What would you say to those thinking of donating funds for Scholarships or Bursaries for Central’s students?
DO IT! You honestly have no idea how many people are gifted, but because of finances, they are unable to be the change that this world needs. I am one of those people. The only difference between myself and them is that I was given an opportunity. The more people that donate, the more opportunities there will be, the more voices heard, the more positive change. The industry is powerful, but there are important voices that are buried under the rubble of disadvantage. You have the power to lift them up, one donation at a time.
What advice would you have for those hoping to follow in your footsteps in the industry?
Your worth stems from you. Whether you are auditioning for drama schools, in drama school, or thinking about going into the industry; know that your worth stems from you. It is not easy, especially when going into an industry that can make you feel as though it is only when you get a yes, that you amount to something. But if you can go into that audition room, building, or movie set, and know that your worth is not dependent on the outcome, but on your self- belief and value, that is when the core of your craft will begin to grow.
Like I said, it is not easy, (it’s a piece of advice for myself, more than anyone else), but it is a lesson all creatives should learn, so that the Arts can continue to thrive.
What are you currently planning on doing after graduation?
I am learning that whilst it is a good thing to plan, it is equally important to focus on the here and now. I am so grateful to be in the position to do that here. So, whilst traveling is on the bucket list, along with many other things, I am open to seeing the blessings that life has to give beyond drama school.
Central’s Big Give Christmas Challenge raises vital funds for Scholarships and Bursaries for our students, and this year will run from 30 November to 7 December 2021.
Find out more about our BA (Hons) Acting Collaborative and Devised Theatre course