Actor Jade Croot: 'Keep trying at auditions – all it takes is one 'yes' to turn things around'

At only 19, Jade Croot is performing in Imperium, her second production at the Royal Shakespeare Company. She talks to Roda Musa about her journey into theatre…

Why did you become an actor?

I was quite shy as a child, but I wanted to get up on stage and perform. It wasn’t until year seven when I performed in a lead role in Bugsy Malone that I became confident in myself. I joined an acting school agency, where I did classes every Friday night, helping me to better my craft. Then I auditioned for adverts and TV. It was a turning point for me when I joined the agency. It helped grow my confidence and my love for acting.

Did you ever consider going to drama school?

I wanted to go to drama school after my A levels, but then I was fortunate enough to be given the chance to perform at the RSC. If I hadn’t had that opportunity aged 16, I would have tried to go to drama school. I have learned so much on the job and from being surrounded by people who have years of experience behind them. Drama school can be a fantastic learning experience for people who want to get into acting, but my journey was a little bit different.

What is it like to be on the set of a big production such as Imperium?

It is so exciting and rather scary because it’s a massive opportunity. I am working alongside some amazing people. It is a dream come true and [RSC artistic director] Greg Doran is a fantastic director. I thank my lucky stars every day that I get to do it and I have made friends for life on this job. Being one of the youngest is scary, but having a wonderful cast and brilliant support has made it all worth it.

Imperium Parts I and II review at Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon – ‘ambitious and intricate’

What role do you play?

I play Tullia, who is Cicero’s (the consul’s) daughter. The play follows Cicero’s life and all the politics that go with it – from when he becomes consul to where he ends up. My character is about 12 years old at the start and is 31 by the end, so the audience gets to see her grow up and mature as the story progresses.

What advice would you give to young emerging actors?

Never give up. You will get a lot of knock-backs. Read a lot of plays and always have faith in yourself. It is such a tough industry and there are many times when you think you’re not good enough, but you have to believe you are. You have to keep trying. All it will take is one ‘yes’ to turn things around for you. The most important thing to remember is that no matter how many times you’re rejected, you will eventually get that ‘yes’.

CV: Jade Croot

Training: None
First professional role: Helen of Troy in Doctor Faustus, RSC, 2016
Agent: Jonathan Arun

Imperium Parts I and II run at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon, until February 10