From Charterhouse to Centre Stage | Performing Arts at Charterhouse

As Theatre Scholars Faris Al Mutawaa (S26) and Ollie Ferry (D26) prepare to take their next steps at two of the world's most prestigious performing arts institutions, they reflect on the experiences, opportunities, and guidance that helped shape their journeys at Charterhouse. 

This autumn, Faris will begin a degree in Musical Theatre at one of the UK’s finest performing arts colleges, Urdang, while Ollie will join world leader RADA's Foundation programme. Although their paths are taking them in different directions, both credit their time at Charterhouse with giving them the confidence, resilience, and ambition to pursue careers in Performing Arts.

For Faris, performing has been a lifelong passion.

"I knew from a very young age that this was what I wanted to do," he says. "One of the first shows I remember seeing was Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. I saw young people on stage and realised that performing was something I could actually do. From that moment, I never really looked back." 

Ollie's journey was rather different.

"I never really imagined this industry was an option for me," he explains. "It wasn't until I became involved in productions at School that I started to see performing as something I could genuinely pursue. For me, this was playing Etches in Titanic in Removes (Year 10)."

That realisation was encouraged by Mr Dean Chisnall and Miss Emily Fox and the wider support of the Performing Arts department, which both describe as instrumental in helping them discover their potential.

While their successful auditions represent a significant achievement, both Faris and Ollie are quick to emphasise that the most valuable lessons they have learned extend far beyond performance itself.

"Resilience is just as important as talent," says Ollie. "In this profession, rejection is inevitable. One of the most important things Charterhouse teaches you is how to accept feedback, learn from it, and keep moving forward."

Faris agrees.

"The department creates an environment where criticism is always constructive," he explains. "You learn that feedback isn't something to be afraid of. It's there to help you improve. I've come to appreciate those conversations because they show that people care about helping you develop."

The opportunities to perform have also challenged both to grow creatively and personally. Reflecting on some of the roles he has undertaken during his time at Charterhouse, Faris describes the experience as transformative.

"I've been pushed well outside my comfort zone," he says. "Playing very different characters has taught me that I don't want to be limited to one type of role. I want to be able to take on any challenge and continue developing as a performer."

For Ollie, one of the most powerful discoveries has been the collaborative nature of theatre.

"Working with talented and supportive people made me realise how special this industry can be," he says. "The kindness, generosity, and teamwork involved in creating a production are incredibly important. Those experiences showed me that this is something I want to spend my life doing."

Both also speak warmly about the culture they have experienced within the Ben Travers Theatre and the wider school community.

"What makes Charterhouse special is that every pupil is encouraged to develop as an individual," says Ollie. "Whether someone wants to pursue performing professionally or simply enjoys taking part, the staff create an environment where everyone can thrive."

That personalised approach has played a significant role in preparing them for the next stage of their journeys. At Urdang, Faris is looking forward to refining his skills across singing, acting, and dance, while Ollie is excited to immerse himself in the classical acting training for which RADA is renowned.