Harry Potter’s pal sees young actors have a go
There were some tips from the top when aspiring actors auditioned for two famous faces.
Former chi ld actor Anthony Lewis was holding trials in Maidstone for potential students of a new branch of drama school, Totally Lit North. Anthony, who has appeared in Emmerdale, Casualty and Hollyoaks, also roped in his film star brother, Matthew, known to millions as Harry Potter’s brave and loyal friend Neville Longbottom. They were at the YMCA centre in Melrose Close, Loose, to give youngsters the chance to pursue their interests in drama, movement, role play and characterisation, while receiving advice on how to survive in the industry.
Totally Lit North is based in Leeds and was set up following the launch of a London branch in 2013.
Anthony, 32, hopes it will become a permanent fixture in the county.
He said: “We hold these auditions to see people’s attitudes and whether they really want to pursue it as a career. It’s really important for all the young people to understand just how competitive this industry is.
“What we’ll be able to do is teach them skills that they will be able to apply in any job.”
Matthew, 26, said: “I’ve been very lucky to be able to do the job that I love for more than 20 years now.
“I feel very fortunate that I’ve been given some amazing opportunities and it’s very humbling to think young actors look up to me. Through this school we want to help young people get into the business.”
Anna Moscicki, 14, of Headcorn Road, Maidstone, was one of many youngsters from across the county who tried their best to secure a spot.
Speaking after the audition she said: “I’ve been inspired over the years through watching TV programmes such as Tracey Beaker.
“I’ve always been interested in performing on stage, but my dream and ultimate goal is to appear in TV or film.”
Twenty hopefuls will be picked for a place on the course, which will start later this year.
‘It’s really important for all the young people to understand just how competitive this industry is’