youngandtalented.co.uk | Y&T Alumni Liyah Summers in New RSC Season!
Y&T Alumni Liyah Summers is currently starring in David Edgars’s Maydays as part of the RSC Mischief season. Ahead of tomorrow night’s opening night Y&T sat down to ask some questions about Liyah’s career path.
She has fond memories of her time at Y&T. ‘What I remember most is the supportive environment. Everyone around you, be it tutors or peers, was so encouraging. Confidence, self belief and stepping out of your comfort zone was massively encouraged. We were given the perfect balance and compliments and criticism. I think it helped me on my path. It taught me to push myself and it taught it me the art of being professional. The first things I learnt about the business side of things ie. networking and agents was when I was part of the Y&T Rep Company. I think Y&T played a major part in helping me on my path, and I’m always grateful for that.” Thanks Liyah, we think your fantastic.
In terms of her biggest challenges as an actor, Liyah says it is” having to be an activist, and fight for change. Being a black woman, I often have to speak up regarding diversity, gender equality, sexism and racism in the industry and it can be challenging,and tiring finding the energy and confidence to do it, but I think it’s important, and it’s also rewarding when you see changes happen because you spoke up, so it’s a good challenge to have to face.’ We think this is amazing Liyah and we are behind you in speaking up 100 percent.
After ‘Maydays Liyah is doing shows over Christmas at The Cheltenham Everyman Theatre with Hammerpuzzle Theatre Company. She will be performing in The Velveteen Rabbit and The Old Curiosity Shop. On her upcoming roles Liyah has been cast as an actor-musician,’I’m not very good at the ukulele so that should be fun.’ We know you will be great.
Y&T is proud of Liyah and all her achievements. We cannot wait to see what she does next. Maydays is on until October 20th in Stratford Upon Avon in The Other Space.