We are exceptionally pleased to welcome some new faces to CCAD to  strengthen our course offer in the areas of stage and screen. One such new course offer is a our new BA (Hons) degree in Acting for Stage and Screen. We are pleased to welcome Jonny Bussell to the family to lead this new exciting degree!

We interviewed Jonny so we could find out more about him for you!

Before you joined CCAD what were you doing?

Previously I was Programme Leader for Acting at Newcastle College for the last four years.  I have worked extensively as a writer, actor and director at theatres such as Northern Stage, Arc, Alphabetti Theatre and Theatre 503.  Previously I trained in Acting at Arts Educational Schools London graduating in 2008.

What excites you about the new course that you will be working on?

I’m really excited about the collaborative nature of the courses with the Acting students having the opportunity to work with their peers to create exciting new films and plays.  Coming from Teesside I’m really excited that we have the opportunity to provide such great Actor training on Teesside.  I wish this was around when I was 18!

What skills will you bring to this?

I bring my industry experience and this will inform the Programme with current industry trends.  I also have a passion for new writing, classical theatre and physical theatre so we can offer students a wide range of skills development within their training.

What qualities are you looking for in a student?

A student with passion for Acting and who really wants to learn.  The most important thing is that students are open to new ideas and ways of working so we can make exciting new works.

What industry/academic experience are you most proud of?

When my first full length play ‘The Centre’ was produced at Arc in Stockton was my proudest moment.  I also had my play ‘The Bag’ tour the North of England and Scotland with Northumberland Theatre Company for a month which was really exciting and ‘Just Checking’ which was an Arts Council funded play produced at Arc and Northern Stage.

Any industry contacts which you’ll be bringing with you to enhance the student experience?

We’ll have strong links with Arc in Stockton as well as Alphabetti Theatre in Newcastle and will be working closely with the touring companies that will be performing in these venues.  I will also be able to get in guest speakers from a host of theatre and film companies