A Mater Dei Prep School student and an aspiring has been chosen to attend the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art’s summer program in London, England.
Griffin Cole will attend the academy, which was established in 1904 and is one of the oldest drama schools in the United Kingdom. It is considered to be one of the best acting and theater schools in the world.
The program is offered to students age 18 and up and only selects 15 students into the summer program every year. Cole is one of the youngest performers in the five-week program that focuses on singing technique, musical coaching, dance, speech, scene study, monologue, staging, voice, and stage.
He will also be involved in masterclasses with various West End actors, dancers, and directors who are currently working on shows, according to a prepared statement.
Cole will work with Ms. Jane Streeton, an international soprano soloist who currently runs the musical theater program at the academy.
“Having the opportunity to travel to Europe and learn from renowned coaches like Jane Street on will be an amazing experience. I am excited to learn new techniques that will sharpen my acting abilities. Having the opportunity to learn from these individuals will give me great exposure and allow me to adapt their strategies,” Griffin said in a prepared statement.
Cole is a member of Seraph Players, a theatre group that is part of the Mater Dei Prep School’s performing arts program.
Last year, Cole made his Mater Dei Prep musical debut as King Triton in “The Little Mermaid” and Lord Aster in “Peter and the Starcatcher.” He was nominated for many awards that include the 2015-2016 Count Basie Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical and the New Jersey Teen Arts Festival Vocal Solo/Small Ensemble Award, according to a prepared statement.
Cole attributes his success on the big stage to the Middletown high school’s performing arts program, according to a prepared statement.
“Joining a group like the Seraph Players at Mater Dei has allowed me to open up and grow as an actor. The program is very supportive and has helped increase my confidence on stage. The family like nature of the Seraph Players is extremely encouraging and has helped bring me to a new level,” Griffin said, in a prepared statement.
Cindy Dwyer, Mater Dei Prep’s performing arts director, was not surprised that Griffin was accepted into the program.
“Griffin has always been a hard worker and a true blessing to have in the Seraph Players. He is constantly trying to perfect his talent by taking new classes and I just know that he will shine at RADA. I am extremely proud of Griffin and wish him all the best,” Dwyer said.
For more information about the Mater Dei Prep performing arts program call 732-671-9100 or visit www.materdeiprep.org.