Alumnus Returns to Brighton Family Panto as Principal!

Ethan Makey, an East Sussex College performing arts alumnus, is set to return to the Brighton Family Panto this festive season, this time in a lead role.

Ethan is back to play Chester the Jester in Sleeping Beauty this Christmas! Following his studies at East Sussex College, he has gone on to take on a variety of roles in the industry.

Reflecting on his upcoming performance, Ethan spoke to the College and expressed his excitement about returning to Brighton Family Panto. Ethan said, "I’m so excited to be returning to Brighton Family Panto once again, but this time as a principal! Last year, I had so much fun in the ensemble, but I feel so privileged this year to be stepping into centre stage and interacting with the audience firsthand."

Ethan also shared the joys of panto and how much the experience means to him. "My favourite part of being involved with panto is the bond you create with the cast. They really become your family for the festive season, and it’s such a special experience to share around Christmas time. Additionally, it’s so rewarding to be bringing some joy and magic to families and children through the power of theatre."

Ethan credits his time at East Sussex College as a major influence on his journey into musical theatre. He noted how the college environment helped him develop his skills. "My time at ESC helped nurture my talent greatly. After finishing school, it was invaluable to be surrounded by fellow students who shared the same vigour, passion, and excitement for musical theatre.

“This was such a great way to learn from each other and feel supported. Not to mention, having access to the performing arts facilities meant having a space to comfortably rehearse, create, and perform."

He also praised his tutors, who played a key role in his development. "I was lucky enough to have tutors that clearly believed in me and envisioned the success I could achieve,” said Ethan. “This created a brilliant environment that I felt let me reach my full potential with their guidance."

Ethan offered some advice to current students pursuing careers in the performing arts. "Put the work in now because you’re going to have to put the work in at some point if you’re going to succeed in this industry. The work on your craft never truly stops as you’re always learning and improving, but you have an opportunity right now at college to refine your craft before you enter further training or the industry at large."

If you’d like to follow in Ethan’s footsteps, click here to explore the performing arts courses on offer at East Sussex College. Check out Brighton Family Panto’s Facebook page for the latest updates!