Harry couldn’t be happier
An accomplished actor, despite his young age, 12-year-old Harry Gilmore is delighted to have been offered a scholarship at the prestigious Glasgow Academy of Music, Theatre and Arts, where he has spent the past year starring in a number of performances including Bugsy Malone and the panto Cinderella.
A familiar face on the acting and drama scene on Arran, 12-year-old Harry Gilmore has been offered a career-boosting opportunity with a scholarship from Glasgow Academy of Music, Theatre and Arts (GAMTA).
The welcome news comes after just one year with the organisation, where Harry has been hard at work starring in a number of ‘big stage productions’ in Glasgow which involved, among others, a punishing run of nine shows in a six-day period.
Harry received the offer from Sharon Graham, principal of GAMTA, by letter – owing to the pandemic which is also the reason for the cancellation of any further pantos this year – following a meeting with tutors and relevant staff who decided to offer Harry the exciting opportunity due to his ‘aptitude and dedication,’ adding that they ‘hope to see him go very far’.
Students at GAMTA are mentored by professionals who have experienced the world of theatre first hand; professional actors, singers, dancers, choreographers, directors and academics, who help to develop and advance the skills of students, many of whom graduate to become professionals in their respective fields.
Only a small number of students are recruited each year to offer personalised training and skills development which is aimed at developing the individual and advancing their unique talents. GAMTA is the oldest and most established musical theatre training in Scotland and graduates are keenly sought after in the industry.
Harry will continue with his acting on Arran, being part of the Arran Drama Group, with Maureen Smith, where he recently played the part of Kurt Von Trapp in the Sound of Music and John Darling in Peter Pan. He also took part in the Arran Drama Festival with Jenny Tweedy.
Harry’s parents Clare and Tom Gilmore, along with his brothers, nanas, grandpas, aunts, uncle and cousins and friends, were all excited to hear the good news and wished him well. Claire said: ‘We couldn’t be prouder of him, I was in tears when we received the news.’
Unfortunately there won’t be any pantos this year due to the pandemic, but island-based actors, and those on the mainland, look forward to getting back on the stage next summer for another season of exciting productions.