It’s OK to be different!

As a community we’re always catching up with our students on their Journey. Today we caught up with Core Student Claire Johnson. Claire has been acting on and off since the age of 15, studying Performing Arts at Uni. Her most recent work was a one woman show ‘Random’ by Debbie Tucker Green – which was performed at the Rosemary Branch Theatre (Islington), and taken to Young Offenders Institutes in London and Bristol.  We talk inspiration, connection and just going for it!

How did you get into Acting?…

I started Speech and Drama lessons from the age of 8 and entered annual competitions for my Jr school, that was the first time I performed and realised I enjoyed it. I auditioned for my first play – Romeo & Juliet- at 15 and the rest (as they say!) is history :)What do you love most about performing

 I love how you can affect someone with your performance. There’s also a sense of freedom I feel when performing which is unparalleled.

What led you to train at The Actors Temple?

My friend wouldn’t stop going on about how good the foundation course was after she did it, so I decided to try it.

What is the biggest thing you have learnt in your core training so far?

That the words don’t really matter… well, they do, but not as much as I once thought! It’s all about the connection you had have with your fellow actor. 

If you could play any character- who would it be and why?

Head of Neurosurgery in a medical drama series. Playing such a complex role would be amazing. Along side the complexities of the role in the hospital, the personal hurdles and pressures would be a real challenge as well. As a woman of colour, I’d also love to portray someone in such a position of authority. 

If you weren’t an actor, what alternate career would you have?

Professional Rugby Player!

What motivates you, when things get tough?

My family, my friends and also the thought of getting to a point in my life where I wish I’d have done more than I did! 

If you could write a letter to your younger self, what would you say?

Just go for it! You’re a good person, don’t care what people think about you, and it’s OK to be different!

What advice would you give to someone thinking about training with The Actors’ Temple?

Come into the training with an open mind, and the willingness to go outside your comfort zone!

Whats next for you?

New headshots! My current ones look nothing like me, so really excited about getting them updated.

Find out more about our Core Training here.

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