Naomi Reddy

What is your name and what did you study?

Naomi Reddy, Acting BA (Hons)

Why did you choose Chester?

I wanted to stay local because of family circumstances, so Chester was a practical choice for me. When I went on a one-to-one tour with the Course Leader for Acting, I was really impressed by the facilities, and everyone made me feel so welcome. It just felt like the right place to be.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

I really enjoyed how varied the training was, especially the mix between acting for stage and acting for camera. One day we’d be working on physical movement, and the next we’d be up close and personal with the camera. It felt like the course gave me a solid foundation for all areas of the acting industry.

Do you have any advice for someone who is thinking about a career in acting?

Be ready to work hard. It’s not easy, and you’ll definitely hear a lot of “no’s”, but if you’re passionate and willing to give it your all, it can be such a rewarding path. There are so many different routes you can go with acting, and the more effort you put in, the more opportunities you’ll find.

What graduate role have you commenced? What area(s) are you working in and what does this entail day-to-day?

Since finishing my degree, I’ve been fortunate to work in both stage and screen. One of my recent roles was with Cheshire Constabulary on their Safer Streets campaign, a great opportunity that came through a connection my course leader, Pam, helped me make. I’ve also toured with a theatre company and was proud to be part of a production that won the All England Drama Festival, where I received the award for Best Performance. Alongside this, I’ve been involved in Theatre in Education and worked as a learning facilitator, helping to deliver engaging and impactful sessions for younger audiences.

How did your time at Chester prepare you for your current role?

My time at Chester helped me develop both the physical and professional skills needed for my career. The practical training built my confidence, communication skills, and ability to create strong working relationships. Meanwhile, the academic side of the course improved my time management, presentation skills, and ability to work independently or as part of a team. All of these experiences contributed to my professional development and adaptability in the workplace.

Did you take part in any extracurricular activities, societies, or internships while studying?

Yes, I got involved in a range of acting-related opportunities outside of my main course. I took part in scratch nights, nurse training days, and filming projects for nursing simulations. I also participated in rehearsed readings, which were great for building confidence and trying out new material.