A talented young Noosa performer, Emily Potts, has taken home the Sunshine Coast Junior Eisteddfod’s prestigious Bursary for a Senior Performer.
The bursary honours Emily’s body of work over seven years of Eisteddfod competition, and tops off a string of recent awards, including first in the Senior Duologues with Andy Roberts, third in her group improvisation and a highly commended for her work in the Senior Drama Championship.
Johanna Wallace, Emily’s acting coach and Director of Little Seed Theatre Company, says Emily is a bright talent who is “going places”.
“For the many directors, teachers and coaches who have worked with Emily in dance, singing and drama, the award would come as no surprise,” Johanna says.
“I first directed Emily in a children’s show for Noosa Arts Theatre in 2012. From the moment I met Emily, I admired her passion for performing. Emily is tireless in her commitment. Her discipline is outstanding, her talent and skills grow every year and she’s well respected in arts circles for her enthusiasm and support of her fellow performers.”
Currently in Year 12 at St Theresa’s Catholic College, Emily plans to use the bursary to further enhance her acting skills before she heads out to chase bigger dreams.
Emily wowed audiences last year playing Elphaba in Wicked and is excited to be taking centre stage as Adelaide in Little Seed’s upcoming production of Guys and Dolls.
The timeless musical will transport audiences from the bustle of Times Square to the dance clubs of Havana, as a talented ensemble cast belt out showstopping tunes from the energetic “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” to the classic “Luck Be a Lady”.
“It’s such a classic musical. My character, Adelaide, is so much fun to play and the entire show is a vibrant, exciting mix of song, dance, comedy and costumes,” Emily says.
What’s Emily’s advice to other aspiring actors in our community?
“A ‘no’ doesn’t mean no forever. I’ve had my share of knockbacks – where I wasn’t right for the role or it wasn’t my time – but I’ve never let that define me as a person. Resilience and persistence will take you a long way – and you have to believe in yourself.”
Little Seed’s production of Guys and Dolls will be performed at Noosa’s The J from 4-5 October. Tickets are available online: www.thej.com.au/guys-dolls/
