Ariel Drama Academy Patron

Video Message from Nigel Select Here

I had been asked to become a patron in the past and had always politely declined. Citing that I was either "too busy", "it's just not the right time" and "I wouldn't be patron at this drama school even if it was the last one on earth.” O.K. so I didn't say that last one but I wanted to at times, believe me!

So I came to Ariel one Saturday morning, it wasn't quite raining but the heavens were getting very dark and this painted an ominous picture whilst driving down the A23. But to my delight, from the moment I walked into ‘Ariel Drama Academy’ I knew. Firstly from the large amount of students ranging from 5 – 20 years of age. They all so obviously wanted to be there at the Academy. The staff so professional, attuned, caring, patient and, above all, challenging the kids and not baby sitting them! By demonstrating a passion and enabling the students to learn, work and discover, while never losing sight of their own uniqueness. This is something some full-time performance schools fail to grasp. Oh, and they made me a really nice cup of tea with biscuits as well. How are you going to say NO after that! I could go on, talking about the wonderful shows they have staged to such a professional level, but I'm sure you have, or will, discover all this for yourselves-Maybe not the nice cup of tea part but most definitely go see the productions!
 
On a broader note I think the lessons you can learn, besides the obvious technical ones, are the most valuable of all: starting to get to know yourself; building confidence and self-esteem, which can be taken out into the wider world; a sense of pride and achievement; and who knows, if you stay with it, the beginnings of a long and interesting career.
 
I am passionate about what I do for a living, and in ‘Ariel’ I have found a company that equals my passion if not goes beyond it! It is with all this in mind that I say YES! YES! YES! to becoming their patron.

 Nigel Harman

As Lord FarQuaad in 'Sherek The Musical' Opens May 2011 Theatre Royal Drury Lane (Tickets on sale 1st October)