FORMER Kirklees College performing arts student Felicity McGreal has continued the college’s long run of producing showbiz stars.
And she has returned to the college to share her experiences.
Felicity, 22, performed in the glittering closing ceremony of the London Olympics.
Her success is the latest boost to the college’s record of producing household names.
The performing arts course’s most famous ex-pupil is actress Jodie Whittaker, who has appeared in dozens of TV dramas and films, including Marchlands, The Accused and 2006 feature film Venus with Peter O’Toole and Vanessa Redgrave.
Other Kirklees College alumni include Paula Lane who currently plays Kylie Platt in Coronation Street and Justin Hawkins, lead singer of rock group The Darkness.
Felicity spoke to 50 current pupils on the course about her high profile experience.
She said: “I auditioned for the Olympics in October 2011.
“There were around 400 people in my audition which meant there was a lot of waiting around and we had to do lots of big group tasks.
“I found out at Christmas that I had made it through and I was really excited.
“It wasn’t a quick process, but what I have learnt in this industry is that you have to play the waiting game.
“I got my rehearsal schedule and started the first rehearsals in January.
“It was all top secret: the location, the plans, the costumes, everything had to be kept under wraps!
“I had expected to be dancing in the final show, but due to some changes, I found out on my first day that I would be part of a team of 200 who would build John Lennon’s 3D head on stage!
“Even though this wasn’t what I had expected, being part of such an amazing event and part of the excitement that surrounded the Olympics was really worthwhile.
“The atmosphere was crazy, London didn’t sleep!”
Felicity passed her costume and security passes around the room and answered students’ questions about her experience.
Now a ballet teacher at Baby Ballet in Halifax, Felicity encouraged students to make the most of opportunities in the performing arts industry to be in with the best chance of success.
She added: “I have two key things to share.
“Never give up even when you get a knock back – something always works out if you keep going and believe in yourself.
“And finally, always think about your connections and the impression you make – you don’t know where it may lead.”
