Talented Emma gets a huge chance to shine
A talented performer has earned the opportunity to work with a top Broadway composer.
Emma Knowles, of Girvan, is training for a Musical Theatre diploma at The MGA Academy of Performing Arts in Edinburgh and was mentored by Jonathan Reid Gealt when he visited the academy.
The composer has released multiple albums and his songs have been performed as part of shows in sold out venues across the world.
Emma, 18, grew up performing in school theatre productions after following in her sisters footsteps who also loved musical theatre.
The former Girvan Primary School pupil said: “When I was offered a place at The MGA Academy, I was over the moon as I’d also applied to go to a few London schools but I really wanted to stay in Scotland.
“Having the opportunity to learn from Jonathan Reid Gealt was amazing as he has so much experience of working in the industry.
“I sang three songs for him and he gave me some really constructive feedback on how to improve.
“I found working with Jonathan to be very inspiring.”
Emma added: “When I finish my training, I’m going to move to London to audition for jobs.
“My ultimate goal is to be cast as Rizzo in Grease as it’s my favourite musical.”
Jonathan Reid Gealt, who is based in New York City, said: “I’ve been very impressed with the staff and students at The MGA Academy in the past and so I like to visit every time I’m in Scotland.
“Whilst mentoring Emma and her fellow students, I tried to get them to think about how to best tell stories through songs.
“I encouraged them to try and relate songs and lyrics to things that they have experienced in their own lives.”
Last year, the Edinburgh- based academy became the first full- time professional training academy in Scotland to be awarded accreditation by CDET, the UK’s quality assurance and membership body for the professional dance, drama and musical theatre industries.