Class of 2024 | Josh Moore
My name is Josh, I am in my final year, study philosophy and have this year been in the Drama Society and Musical Theatre Society.
It’s been a busy year
Part of the trick of getting the best out of university to find a healthy balance between course and society commitments.
I think I’ve found this balance over the past three years – mostly because of the support my teachers have provided. Don’t get me wrong though, it can be stressful here and there, but overall it has been great.
From Machinal to a Midsummer Night Dream, to The Producers
In first term of my first year I directed the Drama Society production of ‘Machinal.’ I then was an assistant director on Zoe Morris’ production of Electra. My first term of my second year was consumed by directing King Charles III, which was one of my most rewarding experiences.
In my second term of second year, I was cast in Midsummer Night’s Dream, and it was here that I became obsessed with the idea of putting ‘The Producers’ on at UCL. We thought the show would allow us to combine much of what had been missing at UCL up to that point, particularly the old-school musical theatre style the show demanded.
Another key project I was a part of was being the lead producer on the New Writing Festival, which saw the drama society put on a festival celebrating 12 writers original pieces. I also worked on a number of short films.
This then led to this final year. I was cast as Robert Chiltern in ‘An Ideal Husband’ in term one, which was a great privilege. And then it was onto ‘The Producers’…
The ArtsUCL community is truly something special?
It’s difficult to explain to people who are not at UCL just what a privilege it is to have an artistic community like ArtsUCL.
It comprises of three things that constantly blows my mind – the endless talent of UCL students, their passion and dedication, and the world-class facilities.
We have performers and writers and other creative minds who could be at any top drama school in the country, without a doubt. I’ve seen and been a part of so many shows where there is no weak link. It feels as close to professional as you can get…
Second, the fact most people are doing it for fun, blows my mind. Everyone is doing it out of passion, interest, curiosity, and commit to the shows as though it was the only thing they have to worry about. Such dedication is truly extraordinary.
Not only that, but to have the Bloomsbury theatre, a professional working theatre, is enough to make any other drama-interested student in the country jealous!
The film studio, as something entirely student-led, is another example of facilities you don’t usually get at the non-arts school university level.
Being entrusted to deliver shows on such a stage is a magnificent opportunity and should be front and centre at the UCL marketing strategy for prospectus students.
I get to study for my degree and direct a musical…
Directing ‘The Producers’ was my first time directing a musical. The moral support from other Musical Theatre members and the extraordinary talent (and patience) of the cast, made the show spectacular.
No matter the role, everyone was committed and passionate about the project, and I really think people felt that when people saw it.
The two most important things I’ve learned this year
One is to try new things! It was my first musical, and felt very risky, but the payoff made all of this so worth it and you find out a lot about yourself along the way.
Two (and this is important) is to surround yourself with people who can support you. There are so many elements to putting on a show, and the key to good directing, is finding the people with the skills to do the things you cannot. If it weren’t for Alexis, Jenny, Sam, Tom, Rafael, Chau, just to name a few, this show wouldn’t have been half of what it was.
The people are what really make it special
I know the memories I’ve made through Drama Society and Musical Theatre Society are going to stay with me long after I have left UCL.
Friends and family who work professionally in film commented on how the passion which these productions are built on is special, but it doesn’t necessarily happen on a professional level.
To them, it is a job. To us it is a joy and a privilege.