For the ninth consecutive year, Emil Dale Academy returned to Scotland to host drama school auditions and a West End-level masterclass at the Royal Concert Hall Glasgow.
The annual event has become a key date in the Academy’s calendar, attracting performers from across Scotland and beyond. This year, more than 100 young performers attended the day, auditioning for places on the Academy’s full-time training programmes while taking part in workshops designed to reflect the expectations of professional musical theatre training.
The day began with participants split into two groups. One half took part in vocal warm-ups and ensemble singing, led by Head of Music Matt Mellor, while the other completed the dance audition round. The groups then swapped, ensuring every performer experienced both disciplines before the afternoon sessions.
Following the morning sessions, founder Emil Dale hosted a Q&A alongside Mellor, giving performers the opportunity to ask questions about training, auditions and the realities of transitioning into the industry. The afternoon moved into solo singing auditions, followed by a musical theatre jazz workshop led by Serenar Douch (West End cast of Moulin Rouge! The Musical).
The Glasgow auditions hold particular significance in the Academy’s history. It was at this event that several future graduates were first identified, including Leesa Tulley and Rachael Kendall Brown. Leesa has since gone on to become a West End leading lady, recently joining the cast of SIX the Musical and winning Best Performer in a Musical at The Stage Debut Awards for Why Am I So Single? at the Garrick Theatre. Rachael’s career has since spanned major touring and producing houses, with credits including Pretty Woman on its UK and Ireland tour, Get Down Tonight with ATG Productions, leading roles in Where Eagles Fly, and her upcoming role as Kylie in The High Life with the National Theatre of Scotland and Dundee Rep Theatre.
Now in its ninth year, the Royal Concert Hall Glasgow auditions continue to reflect Emil Dale Academy’s commitment to meeting talent where it is, providing high-level access to training and industry insight beyond London.
