Two aspiring actresses from Stone have been offered places at a leading performing arts school that boasts Dame Judi Dench as its president.
Seventeen-year-old Alex Mellor and Melissa Potts, 19, both former pupils at Stone’s Rooftop Studios, have been offered places at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, one of the UK’s leading drama school.
However, the girls are as yet to make their final decision as to whether to accept their places, as both have been recalled for second auditions at the equally prestigious Guildford School of Acting. A combination of hard work, determination and sheer talent has paid off for the pair who, following rigorous audition processes, are now set for places in what are regarded the ‘Oxbridge’ of performing arts schools.
Melissa said: “Words cannot describe how we are feeling right now – all the hard work over so many years has paid off and, to date, we have achieved all our goals. We know there will be more hard work to come if we are to achieve our ultimate dreams but we are prepared for it and cannot wait to get started on the next stage of our careers!”
Elaine Bird, principle at Rooftop Studios where both girls undertook their formative training in dance, drama and musical theatre, said: “We’re immensely proud of Melissa and Alex – they’ve both been with us since they were very small and we’ve been privileged to share their journey and watch them blossom into the confident, professional performers they are today.”
Alex and Melissa will make their swansong performance as Rooftop Studios’ alumni in the school’s forthcoming ‘Headliners’ production next month, where they will join other pupils in a showcase performance of dance, drama and musical theatre at The Mitchell Arts Centre in Stoke.
For those looking to follow in the girls’ footprints, Rooftop Studios teaches a broad performing arts curriculum for youngsters from three to 18 via its three schools – Stagecraft Dance School, Little Luvvies and Pop School & Stage Academy (PSSA). Visit www.rooftopstudios.co.uk, call Elaine on 01785 761233 or email elaine@rooftopstudios.co.uk
