Students Take on New York City

East Sussex College’s students recently embarked on an unforgettable trip to New York, immersing themselves in the city’s world-famous arts and culture scene.

The action-packed visit gave them the opportunity to experience live performances, take part in professional workshops, and explore some of the most iconic locations in the entertainment industry.

Upon arrival in New York, students settled into their hotel before heading straight into an exciting itinerary. One of the first major stops was a behind-the-scenes tour of Radio City Music Hall, where they gained insight into the history and operation of the legendary venue.

From there, they explored Times Square and had free time to take in the sights before an evening performance of MJ: The Musical at the Neil Simon Theatre, an inspiring experience for many of the aspiring performers.

The next day saw students stepping out of their comfort zones with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, followed by another incredible theatre experience watching Hell’s Kitchen at The Shubert Theatre. With time to explore, they embraced the city’s culture before preparing for a series of specialist workshops designed to refine their skills and introduce them to industry professionals.

Students had the opportunity to take part in Broadway vocal training, an acting-for-film session at the New York Film Academy, and a high-energy dance workshop at the renowned Alvin Ailey Studios. These sessions provided hands-on experience with experts, offering valuable training that will support their future careers.

Following the workshops, they took the Staten Island Ferry for breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and later visited the 9/11 Memorial, taking time to reflect on the historical significance of the site. The evening wrapped up with a visit to Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where aspiring Broadway performers entertain diners in a lively, musical atmosphere.

The final full day in New York was just as thrilling, with students attending professional workshops in either MJ dance or stage combat. After refining their performance skills, they spent the afternoon ice skating in Central Park before heading to The Outsiders at the Bernard Jacobs Theatre, a fitting end to a trip filled with inspiration, learning, and artistic exploration.

The Performing Arts department said, “This trip has been an incredible experience for our students, giving them a real insight into the industry and inspiring them to push their creative boundaries. From world-class performances to hands-on workshops, they’ve had a taste of what it’s like to train and perform at the highest level.”

The trip to New York was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, reinforcing East Sussex College’s commitment to providing students with enriching experiences that go beyond the classroom.

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