Acting Students Gain Industry Insight with TV and Theatre Star

East Sussex College’s Acting students recently had an inspiring opportunity to work with Lewes Roberts, a former ESC student and established actor known for his roles in popular TV shows and theatre productions.

Lewes has become well-known through his work in TV series like STELLA on Sky 1, The Tuckers on BBC2, and the BBC’s Big School, alongside impressive stage credits in productions such as Heaven’s Gate with Cosmic Collective Theatre, Waiting for My Real Life to Begin at the Street Theatre, and As You Like It with The Lord Chamberlain’s Men.

He’s also a familiar face in the local community, having played lead roles in Eastbourne Theatres’ pantomimes, including his portrayal of the Beast in Beauty and the Beast, a role he reprises in Portsmouth this year.

During the year, Lewes has been active at the college, running workshops and joining the Acting department’s audition panel to provide invaluable feedback that has helped students sharpen their progression skills. Just last week, he worked with students on character development as they prepared to tour their own pantomime, performing for over 2,500 local primary school children. Lewes will also be part of the upcoming ESC open evening, where he will guide students through character development techniques.

This collaboration was made even richer by a partnership with Eastbourne Theatres, allowing students to observe professional rehearsals and gain insights from director Chris Jordan and members of the cast and creative team.

Reflecting on his experience with the students, Lewes shared valuable advice on the audition process, character development, and the resilience required to make it in the acting industry. His story and success have offered a realistic and inspiring view of life in the performing arts.

Andrew Stanley, Performing Arts lecturer at East Sussex College, said, “Lewes' involvement and work with the Acting students has been excellent. As a brilliant performer with the highest professional standards he has been able to generously share his knowledge and experience, and be a perfect role model for our actors to aspire to, and follow in his footsteps.”

For students who are inspired to follow a similar path and are interested in studying Performing Arts at East Sussex College, more information can be found here.