Stratford-upon-Avon College alumnus and stand-up comedian Stuart Goldsmith recently had the opportunity to perform on the BBC’s ‘Live at the Apollo.’
Stuart studied at the College in the 90s and has since had a hugely successful career as a stand-up comic and actor.
Throughout Stuart’s career, he has performed stand-up on the Conan O’Brien show in the US, toured with Jack Whitehall, and performed at Wembley Arena on numerous occasions. He comments: “There are other career highlights which are less shiny. I was in the 1st and 2nd editions of Taskmaster. I would have won were it not for my inability to beat Josie Long as to how many grapes I could keep in my mouth!”
Alongside his time at Stratford, Stuart was part of a youth theatre group that took him to Edinburgh Fringe, which he believes is a must for those wanting to break into the industry: “You must go to Edinburgh fringe. It completely changed my life.”
Last month, Stuart had the opportunity to perform on series 19 of ‘Live at the Apollo’, describing it as “thrilling and wonderful and really exciting”. He adds: “I had made peace with the fact that I was unlikely ever to perform on live at the Apollo. When I got the call, I felt an enormous sense of relief and was super proud to have finally achieved this career milestone!”
Stuart has some advice to offer to people wanting to get into the industry: “There are lots of young people entering the industry every year. You have to work harder than you realise – but that IS something you are capable of doing. Do things yourself, don’t wait for someone to give you a job. Create opportunities for yourself.”
Stuart’s advice to anyone considering studying at the College: “I had a great time at Stratford-upon-Avon College and I hope that you do too.”
We wish Stuart the best as his career continues to shine.
