Take the Stage is our series where we catch up with graduates from Performers College, to see what they’re up to now. This week we’re catching up with Olivia Forbes, BA Musical Theatre and Dance graduate to hear her story.
What is an average day like on your current production?
I am currently a production cast dancer for Celebrity Cruises, performing two brand new productions choreographed by some of the top industry professionals. My average workday onboard consists of a tech rehearsal to ensure the stage is safe for us to perform that evening, followed by two shows at 7pm and 9pm. For our newest shows, On Broadway choreographed by West End’s Gary Lloyd and Boogie Wonderland by Melanie Lewis-Yribar, a tech rehearsal is super important as we have lots of automation and set movements.
What is your top advice to current students and other up-and coming performers?
Take every opportunity! Take every class available, every singing lesson, every and any opportunity to perform. I started off at college very shy and never dreamed I would be where I am today so soon after graduating – meeting so many amazing people and taking in all the advice. I have gotten a lot of my contracts through word of mouth and maintaining a good reputation. Personal relationships are really important, as you never know who could be watching your next performance.
Why is collaboration important in creative industries, and what would your number one collaboration tip be?
In my first few weeks of 3rd year we had an industry workshop, it was Heathers and Gary Lloyd had come in for the day to teach us. I remember going at the end of class to ask for feedback on how to improve and really trying to implement this over the coming classes. Two years later, I am in his brand-new production. Learning from him at college and understanding different teaching techniques ultimately prepared me for this.
What was your biggest take away from your time at performers college?
Never give up -as cliche as that sounds, never ever give up. I doubted myself at times during training and one day it finally hit me that the only person who could stop me achieving was myself. You’re as good as you allow yourself to be, so allow yourself to be amazing. I wish I had learnt this sooner, there is no limit to your success.
What has been your biggest highlight so far?
My current contract feels like my biggest highlight. I am on my fourth contract at sea within the last 2 years, and I have progressed to dance captain in such a short space of time. Travelling the world and performing, who doesn’t want to do that!? I’ve now been to 37 countries and counting, and six of the seven continents!
What’s next for you?
I have 5 months left of this 10 month contract and then back home to London to find my next adventure!
To discover more about Performers College, including auditions and how to apply, contact us at [email protected] or book an Open Day on our Events page.
