Teenager tipped for stardom
A TEENAGER is being tipped for international stardom after winning a place at one of the most prestigious acting schools in the country, writes Lorraine King. Kadeem Pearse, 17, of Casselden Road, Harlesden, has become one of the youngest ever hopefuls t
A TEENAGER is being tipped for international stardom after winning a place at one of the most prestigious acting schools in the country, writes Lorraine King.
Kadeem Pearse, 17, of Casselden Road, Harlesden, has become one of the youngest ever hopefuls to study for an acting degree at the Central School of Speech and Drama (CSSD).
The renowned institution in Swiss Cottage, is considered the top acting academy after RADA.
The talented thespian is celebrating a double whammy after winning a place just days after scooping a gold medal in acting in the regional heat of World Skills UK.
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He will now compete for the coveted overall title against aspiring actors from all over the globe.
Kadeem, who is now 18, is gearing towards the end of a two-year National Diploma course at the College of North West London in Dudden Hill lane, Willesden, and has taken the lead role at the college's major drama project, 4:48 Psychosis, a hard-hitting adult-themed 50-minute play about clinical depression.
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He said: "I was so excited at the news that I got my teacher out of bed to tell him!
"I always wanted to go to drama school rather than university because I am so passionate about acting, and I could see the Central was the place for me."
"Then when I got the gold at World Skills, I was on a roll. Winning two golds is the highlight of my life so far."
The CNWL is no stranger to nurturing successful stars after former student Nonso Anozie went on to become the youngest actor to play King Lear and Othello since graduating from CSSD.
Tipping Kadeem for the bright lights of stardom, Steve Keating, his teacher and CNWL head of arts, said: "Kadeem has always been an outstanding student, but to get into the Central you need not just acting skills, but many other qualities.
"For him to go on to win gold at regional World Skills is the icing on the cake.
"We fully expect him to be among the top scorers selected for the national UK Skills final in Stockport, Manchester, on July 2.
"Whatever happens, he has a brilliant future ahead."
According to Kadeem's mother Michelle Poorman, her son's achievements are a welcome addition to his family who are on their way to creating a show business dynasty as he has an American cousin who has appeared in two films and another who is a jazz guitarist.
She added: "I am just so proud of Kadeem, and everybody in the family is really happy for him. He's always wanted to act, and he's always been confident and very determined."
Turn to page 12 to read more about the achievements of the college's students.
