Fly Luke to NYC

From a young age I had quietly dreamed about performing onstage, but didn't pursue it as I felt that in this sport focused country  that theatre wasn't  for boys. 

Through a lot of hard work, at age 15, I graduated from Vision College with a diploma in Software Engineering. I immediately moved on to study at the University of Canterbury. By the age of 18, I had graduated with a BSc majoring in Computer Science.  Finally in 2013 I pushed passed my doubts  and started being tutored in singing and acting by Ravil Atlas.

 Since then I have performed in a number of productions, some of which being: Duncan in A Long Way From Broadway, Preston in Hate Mail (Dramasoc), Prince Charming in Snow White (Riccarton Players) and a chorus member in Chicago (NCMS).

Now, after submitting a video audition, I have been accepted into the Summer Musical Theatre Intensive at the prestigous Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York starting June 1st.

Your donation towards my flights and course fees will make an incredible difference in supporting fresh New Zealand talent take the next step in an New Zealand performing arts career.

I have a rough estimate price of $11,000 which will cover the essentials to take part in this opportunity. This includes course fees, flights, accommodation, and food. I have submitted funding applications to both the Wigram Lions Club and the Riccarton Wigram Community Board's Youth Development Fund and will continue to fundraise through my time in New York.

These are the expenses that I am sure of:

Course fees: $5018.67 (3600 USD)
Flights: $1675.84
Insurance: $229.29
Accommodation: $2663.15 (1900 USD)

This is an incredible opportunity for me, as the 5 week course is for professional actors. At present there is no greater school a singer can attend in order to fully integrate their craft of singing with the dramatic truth displayed by the finest actors.

The school itself was founded by Stella Adler, who was one of USA's most influential acting teachers. Many of the school's students go on to successful careers, some of which include Elaine Stritch, Mark Ruffalo and Robert De Niro.

I would like to recognise Michael Bell and the team at Orange Studio for filming my audition video and Matthew Everingham for being my audition pianist.

Thank you to all my supporters and donors,

Luke