Amy Weston – a Grand Theatre team member and recent Blackpool & the Fylde graduate – is swapping Box Office duties for a lead role on stage next week here at The Grand!

We asked Amy about her journey in the Arts…

Q: So what character do you play in next week’s show Treasure Island?
A: I play a young Jim Hawkins who’s from Bristol, England set in the 1800s

Q: Is their anything unique about the character and why is he important in the play?
A: Jim is an important character because he’s relatable to many people. The play follows the development of a timid young boy who faces many hurdles which allow him to find himself and grow into the young man we see at the end. He learns that people come into your life for a reason but may not always stay. It’s a journey we all inevitably go through in life and whilst it’s not always easy it’s possible.

Q: What have you enjoyed most about the project?
A: I can honestly say I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this project despite its ups and downs, for me it’s always a fun challenge to work on something organically and trust in the process. It’s also been a brilliant ending to my two years at college and I get to work with an incredible cast that have helped me in so many ways. I wouldn’t have it any other way, we’ve become this dysfunctional kind of family and as performances that’s what matters.

Q: What have you learnt from this module?
A: It’s hard to pinpoint one specific thing, Blackpool and the Fylde is a terrific college with a supportive network of Tutors who truly care for each and every pupil. However, the most important lesson I’ve learnt is that nothing is ever perfect but that’s alright because sometimes the most beautiful things are those with flaws. B&FC creates professional students that are ready for the industry.

Q: How do you feel about performing at the Grand Theatre?
A: It’s an honour to perform on such an exquisite stage with the cast of Treasure Island. Having worked in Box Office for close to a year it’s also incredibly nerve wracking to be performing in front of my work colleges. Performing on the Grand theatre stage makes me immensely proud and I’m grateful for all of the hard work that’s continuously being put into its upkeep, as its an important part of our heritage.

Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: I’m rather ambitious in the respect that I strive to live every day to the fullest, invest in property and travel all whilst I’m pursuing my studies at Arden drama school. But making sure to keep my family and friends close.

Treasure Island is showing for one night only on Tuesday 7 June