A performing arts school in Colchester will close its doors after 25 years of nurturing talent, citing a lack of funds as the primary reason. Despite an oversubscribed three-year higher education course and plans to welcome 20 new students this September, the school faced insurmountable financial challenges that ultimately led to the decision to shut down.
The school has churned out a wealth of talent that have graced the stages of London’s West End and even choreographed pop star Kylie Minogue’s world tour. This Friday 12th it will be making its last performances at the Essex University based Lakeside Theatre in Colchester. Fifteen students are now taking advantage of the new three-year higher education track. They are all getting ready to take their talents to the big stage — annual end-of-year shows that are always breathtaking spectacles.
Retired principal Phil Gostelow was sad to see the district close. He praised the amazing collective effort by staff and families, including £30,000 in four weeks of raising money and awareness. The overall amount required to save the institution was £200,000.
“These were meant to be the end of year shows, our graduating cohort’s farewell,” – Phil Gostelow
Gostelow admitted the circumstances have made what should be happy, celebratory performances a bittersweet homecoming.
“Now it’s turned into the last thing we’ll ever produce as a college,” – Phil Gostelow
The school’s impending closure would be a huge blow to the local arts community. Millions of these students today are left in the lurch, struggling to find quality training alternatives. This transition has created a very emotional environment due to the abrupt disruption of friendships and social connections.
“People are suddenly now having to grieve friendships because they’re going to have to find other places to train,” – Phil Gostelow
As the remaining students strive to deliver their best performances despite the cloud of uncertainty looming over them, Mr. Gostelow remains hopeful about their future.
“We’re trying to keep our brains on making the best show we can, but there’s a big cloud hanging over everything,” – Phil Gostelow
He shared with attendees his pride in the school’s deep legacy. He reminded everyone that the concluding shows would be a celebration of everything accomplished over the past decades.
“Not with mourning, but with pride,” – Phil Gostelow
