What Did Your Favorite Stars Look Like Before Fame?

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) has significantly shaped the UK's performing arts landscape over its 75-year history, training numerous renowned talents such as David Tennant, James McAvoy, and Jack Lowden. As it celebrates this milestone, the RCS has opened its archives, showcasing images of iconic figures before their rise to fame, demonstrating the institution's lasting impact on stage and screen.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a retrospective look at its alumni who have left a significant mark in the entertainment industry. With its archives now accessible, the RCS is highlighting the early days of celebrated performers who honed their skills within its walls. This initiative not only acknowledges the institution's legacy but also emphasises its role in nurturing future talent in drama, music, and dance.

Key takeaways

The RCS has trained many notable figures in the performing arts, including David Tennant and James McAvoy.
To commemorate its 75th anniversary, the RCS has opened its archives to showcase alumni before their fame.
The institution offers various scholarships to support aspiring actors and creatives.

Timeline: how we got here

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland has evolved significantly since its inception. Here’s a brief timeline of key milestones:

1947: The Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama was established.
2000: The institution was granted Royal status, becoming the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
2022: RCS introduced new scholarships to support students in drama and acting.
2023: The RCS marks its 75th anniversary with the opening of its archives.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the RCS has unveiled various archival photographs and stories of prominent alumni, highlighting their early experiences at the conservatoire. This initiative aims to inspire current and future students by showcasing the diverse paths taken by graduates.

What was already established

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland has long been recognised for its contribution to the arts, producing numerous actors, directors, and creatives who have achieved significant success in the industry. The institution's commitment to providing high-quality training and fostering talent has remained consistent throughout its history.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The RCS’s influence extends beyond its alumni, impacting broader cultural consumption in the UK. By training stars who go on to feature in popular TV shows, films, and theatrical productions, the RCS enhances the richness of the UK's entertainment landscape.

Businesses and jobs

The graduates of RCS contribute significantly to various sectors, including theatre, television, and film. Their success not only creates job opportunities within the industry but also supports businesses that rely on the creative arts, from production companies to venues.

Policy and regulation

The RCS plays a crucial role in shaping the policies surrounding arts education in Scotland and the UK. As it continues to evolve, the institution may influence future regulations related to funding, accessibility, and the importance of arts education in schools.

Numbers that matter

75 years of training talent in the performing arts.
Over 20,000 alumni have graduated from RCS since its inception.
More than 200 scholarships awarded annually to support aspiring performers.
Fellowships presented to notable figures like James McAvoy and Richard Attenborough.
RCS offers over 50 different courses across various disciplines.

Definitions and jargon buster

RCS: Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, an institution offering training in music, drama, and dance.
BA: Bachelor of Arts, an undergraduate degree awarded in various fields, including performing arts.
Honorary doctorate: A degree awarded to individuals in recognition of their contributions to a specific field.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the RCS continues its anniversary celebrations, it will likely host events, workshops, and performances to engage current students and the community, showcasing its commitment to arts education.

Medium term (1–6 months)

The RCS may expand its scholarship programmes and partnerships with industry professionals, further enhancing its reach and support for aspiring creatives in Scotland and beyond.

Signals to watch

Updates on new scholarship opportunities and initiatives from RCS.
Upcoming events and performances celebrating notable alumni.
Changes in arts education policies that could impact conservatoires and drama schools.

Practical guidance

Do

Explore scholarship options if you are considering applying to RCS or similar institutions.
Attend RCS events or performances to gain insight into the creative process.
Network with alumni and current students for guidance and mentorship.

Don’t

Overlook the importance of formal training in the performing arts.
Ignore the value of building connections within the industry.
Neglect to explore the diverse career paths available within the creative sector.

Checklist

Research RCS and its programmes to find the right fit for your aspirations.
Prepare a strong application highlighting your passion for the performing arts.
Gather references from previous mentors or teachers.
Consider visiting the campus or attending an open day.
Stay informed about industry trends and opportunities for emerging artists.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the RCS has a strong track record, prospective students should consider the competitive nature of arts training programmes. Admission standards are high, and securing funding can be challenging. It’s essential to research thoroughly and be prepared for the realities of a career in the arts, including potential financial instability and the need for resilience.

Bottom line

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland stands as a beacon of excellence in the arts, having nurtured some of the UK’s most celebrated talents over its 75 years. Its commitment to education and support for emerging artists is vital for the future of creative industries in the UK. As it continues to evolve, the RCS will likely remain a key player in shaping the next generation of performers, directors, and creatives.

FAQs

What is the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland known for?

The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is known for training some of the UK's leading talents in the performing arts, including actors, directors, and musicians.

How does RCS support students financially?

RCS offers various scholarships and funding opportunities to support students in accessing pre-higher education drama training and higher-level courses.

Who are some notable alumni of RCS?

Notable alumni include David Tennant, James McAvoy, and Ncuti Gatwa, among many others who have achieved success in theatre, television, and film.