ArtsEd's Kim Vithana: ‘Be open to experiences that help you grow’
John ByrneThe actor and director of ArtsEd school of acting tells John Byrne about making the impossible seem attainable
How did you start off in theatre?
At 16, I went to the theatre for the first time to see Miss Julie. The show was depressing but the experience was overwhelming, and my teacher Campbell Kaye was that special teacher that made a difference. He made the impossible seem attainable for someone like me. And it really was – I went to drama school.
What instigated your move from acting into teaching?
Julie Spencer, principal at ArtsEd, had a vision to make drama school training inclusive on every level. This was extremely innovative and exciting to me.
What is the best piece of advice you have for drama students and graduates today?
Be brave and be sure of yourself in all kinds of weather.
Continues...
What would you change about the theatre industry if you could?
I’d make it more understanding of an actor’s job when auditioning.
What is the best part of your job?
Being the centre of big change in drama school training: the first school to include BSL in the curriculum; the first school to demonstrate real diversity in staffing.
And your least favourite?
Seeing actors doubt themselves.
Who are arts practitioners you admire and would recommend students find out more about?
A wide variety of directors: Ava DuVernay, Chloé Zhao, Amma Asante, Bong Joon-ho, Wes Anderson, Pedro Almodóvar, Indhu Rubasingham. The many brilliant diverse voices, not just one. As creatives, we need to know all the possibilities, from every corner of the globe.
What is the one skill every successful theatre professional should have?
A flexible mindset.
Could you give a tip that readers could put into practice today to increase their mental and physical well-being?
Pay attention to the world around you and be open to experiences that help you grow.
Kim Vithana is an actor and director of ArtsEd school of acting, London. @KimVithana
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