As part of Central’s Big Give Christmas Challenge, we’re speaking to students who have received Scholarships and Bursaries whilst studying at Central, to showcase the impact that these have on them, and their future careers.
Sule Thelwell is a student on Central’s Acting, BA course. He spoke with us about how receiving a Scholarship made a significant difference to his experience at Central.
What made you choose to study at Central?
At the time of applying for a tertiary education I was woefully unaware of the concept of acting school, so I entered that endeavor completely unbiased, and after I was promptly informed about the existence of drama schools, it all made sense;
Chefs have chef school, why wouldn’t actors have acting school?
So, I did some research, after deciding that England had the best acting training, and read as much as I could. Every time I came across the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, the articles made mention of either the institution, its students, its teachers and teaching styles or its talents as being unique. And the word unique is a word that I identify with deeply. Most of my contemporaries back home have different aspirations to me and so I have had to write, direct, act, shoot and then edit my work, mostly on my own. So, I have always felt unique. So, in a way, it seemed as though Central chose me.
Could you tell us about a project or a production you are currently working on at Central?
I have only just very recently finished my first official public production at the school. Central’s production of Shakespeare in Love directed by Robert Styles.
We had 6 glorious shows, all with varying audience demographics and turnouts throughout its short theatrical run. We had a full house on opening and closing nights with decent turnouts on matinees, but we all strived to keep the fire burning for every single show.
We have had really positive general feedback, from students, tutors, patrons, people from the production and the public. It was a moment in time that was only made better by the appreciation of the months of prep and weeks of gruelingly intensive rehearsals. My body is happy it’s over, but I am a better artist, particularly a better singer having been in this production.
You’ve received a Bursary to study on your course, what impact has this had on you and your studies?
The weight of scholarship I have received is not lost on me. It has quite literally changed the course of my life forever. All the things I have accomplished and will accomplish have been made accessible through the kindness and belief in me that my donors have decided to invest in.
I have been able to keep myself out of any great facets of need, during my time in a foreign country that I have travelled to on my own over 3 years ago. It has given me the space to concentrate fully on what is one of the most physically and mentally demanding courses in the United Kingdom.
It has been a rock for me in a land where I know no one else. It’s been my primary support, and I am forever thankful for it.
What would you say to those thinking of donating funds for Scholarships or Bursaries for Central’s students?
Honestly, I wouldn’t know how to fully begin explaining the intricacies of just how significant help like this is, to a student like me. A lot of the time it is the difference between feeding yourself properly when there are seemingly way more financially pressing matters, like school tuitions, rent, bills, and school supplies. I would say to you, potential donor if you are able to, please do. You aren’t ever sure who it is you’re assisting. It could be the next Idris Elba, the next Joaquin Phoenix, or even more aspirationally, the first, them. And as a recipient of help and assistance, it is my full intention to help others in the same capacity and greater when I am inevitably able to do so. Help seeds grow into massive shade trees to provide shade for the next generation.
What do you hope to get out of your training?
I endeavor to curate a process that will deliver in every and any circumstance, enabling me to consistently aim for higher, higher, and higher in my career.
What are you enjoying most about your Central experience?
I love my tutors, they are literal geniuses, I love the guys in IT, they’re jokes, I love the kindness from team in the canteen, I love the wisdom in the team in the library, I love the nurture I receive from estates, and the auxiliary staff, I love Josette and like everyone else, I enjoy spending time with our incredible reception team.
The Big Give’s Christmas Challenge will be raising money for scholarships and bursaries for Central students.
All donations between 28 November and 5 December midday will be generously matched by the Reed Foundation and our supporters. This means that for every £10 you donate, Central will receive £20 for scholarships and bursaries.