Welcome to our blog series, Alumni Stories, where we reconnect with former students of Musicians Ltd who have taken their passion for the performing arts to new heights. In each post, we’ll explore how their experiences here helped shape their journey and continue to influence their careers. The second addition to our series features an inspiring interview with Sophie Dickson, an alumni who recently graced London’s West End. Sophie shares her favourite memories at Musicians Ltd, how our Musical Theatre program ignited her passion, and the valuable lessons that have stayed with her as she pursues her dreams in the performing arts.
1. What is your favourite memory from your time at Musicians Ltd, and how did it influence your passion for performing?
It’s hard to pick only one! My best memories were made during shows and largely by being a part of a cast, making new friends, being backstage and the excitement of going on stage to do a show that everyone has worked so hard for. I find being in a cast like one big team that all supports each other no matter what, I love this about musicians. This has influenced my passion for performing and these memories always remind me why I work so hard towards my goals.
2. How did participating in the Musical Theatre program at Musicians Ltd shape your approach to performance?
The musical theatre programme was transformative for my confidence and the family atmosphere of musicians really helped this by creating a space in which I wasn’t afraid to get things wrong. Being parts of shows such as Into the Woods, Annie, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Moana ignited my passion for performing and helped me to take drama further with shows at my new school in England and with programmes such as the National Youth Music Theatre.
3. What was the most valuable lesson you learned during your Trinity singing exams with Musicians Ltd?
I would say that the most valuable lesson I learned during one of my singing lessons was when I was practicing a piece for my Trinity grade 6 and I completely forgot all of the words! I had never done this before as I was always a perfectionist when it came to my songs, and getting something wrong made me realise that messing up is an important part of the process when learning. Just keep going!
4. In what ways did your experiences at Musicians Ltd help prepare you for your transition to pursuing performing arts at boarding school?
Musicians Ltd gave me the best foundation and skill set I could ever ask for, the musical theatre programme gave me amazing experience and really helped me to get used to being onstage in front of large audiences. This really helped me when I performed as a lead role in a musical in front of 2500 people in Londons West End!
5. What advice would you give to current Musicians Ltd students about making the most of their time in the program?
Throw yourself into everything you do! Don’t hold back! Musicians is a safe space to work on your skills and to enjoy learning, improving and making mistakes sometimes! Also make the most of every minute because you will have the most amazing experiences during your time here!
