Alumna Joins West End’s 'Cabaret' After Inspiring Return as Guest Lecturer

East Sussex College proudly celebrates Performing Arts alumna and guest lecturer, Alexandra Regan, who has joined the West End cast of the award-winning production, Cabaret.

After studying Performing Arts at East Sussex College and completing a BA (Hons) at Bird College, Alex returned to share her knowledge as a guest lecturer. Some of Alex’s previous credits include starring in Starlight Express (Bochum) and The Wizard of Oz (UK Tour).

Reflecting on her time at the College, Alex credited the facilities and passionate teachers for setting her up for success in auditions and performances.

“The impressive performing arts facilities at East Sussex College were the main reason for choosing to study there,” Alex shared. “As well as being able to complete two academic A-Levels, I could maintain a high level of performance training and get qualifications in not only dance but also musical theatre. When attending the open day, teachers were so passionate about their work - it was an incredibly inspiring day. The training I had at East Sussex College set me up for the many auditions for performing arts conservatoires and university accredited colleges I attended for further education in my field.

“I left college well-equipped and confident that I was ready to further my training and a higher level. My tutors at East Sussex College were excellent. Whether academic or performance based, they shared a wealth of knowledge and supplied the tools I needed to begin my professional career.”

Alex’s time at college helped her grow both personally and professionally, preparing her for roles in major productions. “My studying and training at college improved my stamina, my performance and vocal range, confidence, ability to stay calm in pressurised situations and implemented a professional mindset,” she said. “At college, as well as having a focus on disciplined academic written work, we had the opportunity to perform live for multiple audiences. All of which helped prepare me for the professional productions I have now worked on.”

Alex described joining the cast of ‘Cabaret’ as a dream come true!

“Joining the cast of Cabaret in the West End is nothing but a dream come true,” said Alex. “I am forever grateful for all of my tutors, friends and family that have helped me along my journey. I feel incredibly lucky to have joined such an accepting, professional and elite company, I honestly don’t have the words.”

Returning to East Sussex College as a lecturer was something valuable to Alex as she emphasised the desire to give back and offer students a professional insight into the industry.

She said, “Being able to return to East Sussex College as a lecturer is something I hold very dearly to my heart. Coming back to where I trained to pass on the knowledge I have now gained in my professional career is an incredible feeling. I feel so grateful for my training, so to be able to return some of what I gained here is a blessing. Teaching is still learning, and coming back to tutor the students, I am learning from the talent in front of me.

“I have always found the best teachers from my training are those who have a wealth of experience professionally in their field. And as I’m currently working whilst going back to lecture, it means I can provide professional industry advice for the current industry as it’s forever changing!”

For aspiring performers, Alex offers advice on getting the most from their time at college.

“Throw yourself into your training, LISTEN to your tutors, use your time at ESC to implement those professional attitudes, learn from your peers and do not put too much pressure on yourself, your journey is just beginning.”

If you’re interested in following in Alex’s footsteps, please click here to find all of the relevant performing arts courses on offer at East Sussex College.