ASPIRING actress Georgina Madeley is set to perform on the national stage this summer after securing coveted places with two of Britain’s most prestigious youth theatre companies.
The 17-year-old from Bramhope, who has been performing since the age of five, has been selected to join both the National Youth Theatre (NYT) and the British Youth Music Theatre (BYMT) following two gruelling auditions.
Georgina, a Year 12 student at Bradford Grammar School, where she is taking A Level Drama, has been passionate about acting from a young age. She said: “Acting is the perfect way to express myself; it provides a great relief from life and a chance to explore and convey deep emotions.”
The Sixth Form student has earned a place with the National Youth Theatre, known for its rigorous selection process with only an eight per cent acceptance rate. NYT has a history of nurturing young talent, with notable alumni including Dame Helen Mirren, Daniel Craig, Orlando Bloom, Colin Firth and Rosamund Pike.
Georgina has also secured a role in the British Youth Music Theatre’s upcoming show ‘Welcome to Serene’, set to be performed at the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich in August. The play will tackle themes of climate change and social issues through a blend of folk music and surreal storytelling.
It is the second time Georgina has been awarded a place with BYMT, having performed in the acclaimed production of ‘#50Days’ - a musical set against the backdrop of the 17th century British Civil Wars - at Birmingham Hippodrome last year.
Reflecting on her dual success, she said: “I feel delighted to be accepted into both these incredible institutions. It's an honour to join the ranks of so many talented performers.”
Georgina has trained at Stagecoach Harrogate for the last 12 years. Since joining Bradford Grammar School in Year 7, she has been actively involved in various drama productions and three school choirs, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the performing arts.
Earlier this year, she played Wednesday Addams in the school’s production of ‘The Addams Family’ while studying for four A Levels in Drama, Religious Studies, Spanish and English Language. In Year 11 she played Lady Macbeth in the drama department’s production of ‘Dogg’s Hamlet, Cahoot’s Macbeth’.
"Drama at BGS has been an incredible experience for me, thanks to the excellent facilities and the fantastic theatre,” said Georgina. “I believe every child should get involved in drama at school. It builds confidence and provides a platform to express yourself creatively. The opportunities here have been truly enriching."
Julia Sharp, Head of Drama at BGS, praised Georgina’s dedication and passion for the arts. She said: “Drama at our school aims to build confidence and provide a platform for creative expression, and Georgina has truly embraced these opportunities. Her success is very well-deserved.”
As Georgina continues to pursue her dream of becoming an actor, she is also preparing to apply to Cambridge University next academic year to study Linguistics. "I want to be an actor, but I’m aware of how unstable the profession can be. That's why I aim to get a solid degree while continuing to be involved in theatre,” she said.
Dr Simon Hinchliffe, Headmaster at BGS, said: “Georgina's achievements are a testament to her talent and dedication. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and look forward to seeing her continue to shine on the national stage.”
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