Student Spotlight - Leigh Robertson
Scotland has a thriving theatre industry, with 24% of adults attending the theatre at least once in 2022*. At UHI Perth, our Musical Theatre courses will prepare you to cope with the demands of current professional practice and develop your skills in singing and vocal techniques, dance and acting through a range of performance opportunities and training. We chatted to a current student to see how she has been finding her time so far 🎭👇
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Leigh Robertson and I'm from Musselburgh.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I am currently studying HND Musical Theatre. Last year, I was studying Musical Theatre at HNC level, so I have progressed onto my second year of the course.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
When I was applying to colleges/universities, I had come across the university and thought about looking into it more through social media which allowed me to hear more about UHI Perth.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was at Fife College in Kirkcaldy studying my Level 6 Acting and Performing - which was a year-long course to help me ensure I could progress onto my next level of studies.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
Growing up I had always loved performing but didn’t have lots of technical knowledge about the subject. It was always something I knew I wanted to learn about, as well as gain new skills and confidence for myself, preparing me for the future as an inspiring performer.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
Getting to show everyone our hard work that we put in together as a class, or on our own.
When performing, as well as collaborating with others, and seeing everyone's growth from first year to second year and the preparation we are given for the next steps of our career is so inspiring and motivating.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
The shows we’ve put on, as well as getting to work with different people across different aspects of the industry and learning from them.
Can you tell us about the productions you have performed in during your studies?
The Little Mermaid in 2023 - I played Jetsam, Ursula’s evil sidekick. I got to experience playing a different character that was fun and I was able to be creative with. I was also on stage with people I was just getting to know and we were learning how to work together.
The second show that I performed in was our first production of 2024: ‘Into the Woods’, and I played the baker’s wife. In this show, it was extremely important for me to remember music or sound cues for scenes as well as being really aware of who my character was and the relationships she had throughout the show. I learned lots about working with the whole cast and crew as well as show my strengths and confidence when performing, as I was playing such a big character.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I’ve gained so more much more in-depth knowledge about the ins and outs of becoming a character when performing, and different techniques I wasn’t aware of until my studies began. As well as developing my skills when performing in dancing, singing, and acting - that has helped me a lot during my time on the course. I've gained lots of experience from our shows, as well as Cabaret performances or showcases, which has helped me grow more confidence and meet lots of new people along the way.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
Absolutely, right from the beginning of our course our lecturers have always wanted the best for us and care deeply about how we’re doing in all our classes as well as making sure we’re looking after ourselves. They’ve been very supportive especially for us who are planning on our future studies and help us whenever they can - which has always been greatly appreciated.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I’ve managed to really push myself this year and become more self-assured that I am on the right track for my career, which to me is such a great achievement in itself.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
I love that everything is so close by, and everyone is very friendly and happy to help as well as everything on campus is accessible and students don’t need to struggle while there.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time while studying at UHI Perth so far. Getting to meet so many different people has been a real joy and everything about it has been great for me.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I love reading, going to see shows in theatres, hanging out with friends from my course as well as people back home, and spending time looking after my wellbeing and mental health.
What are your future career plans?
I plan on continuing studying BA Musical Theatre or focus on BA Acting at drama schools/universities in Scotland. Then, once I have completed my training, going into the performing industry to act either on screen or stage work.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Be positive and keep an open mind because it really is a great place to go and it’s like you are part of a little family once you’re there, so you’ll fit in fine and enjoy it while you can!!!
