Meet one of the stars of new Belfast production who has been treading the boards since age 3
The teenager is one of the lead performers in the Belfast School of Performing Arts (BSPA) Senior Summer Youth project
For 18-year-old Oliver Stevenson, the summer holidays aren't about taking a break - they're about stepping into the limelight.
The Bangor lad is amongst the principal cast members in this year's Belfast School of Performing Arts (BSPA) Senior Summer Youth Project, and he's prepared to deliver passion, drama and intensity to his role as one of the Leading Players in "Pippin", a daring and electrifying musical heading to The MAC this August.
Despite the cast having just three weeks to mount a complete production from the ground up, Oliver is relishing the pressure.
"Yes, the projects are intense indeed," he says with a laugh. "But I was born busy!".
It comes as little shock that Oliver feels at home beneath the stage lights.He's been treading the boards since he was just three years old, and by five, he'd become a familiar face in the Grand Opera House pantomimes.
However, it was an opportune audition for a BSPA Junior Summer Project when he was eight that truly set his path in stone. "My mum saw the "Annie Jr" summer youth project and signed me up," he reminisces.
"And honestly, if you know me well, you know I love nothing more than a stage, an audience and a mic. That's where I'm happiest."
Since then, Oliver has grabbed every opportunity BSPA has presented - from their weekly classes to every Summer Youth Project available. And he's never looked back.
What is it that keeps him returning year after year?
"It's hard to pick a favourite show," he admits, "because each one is special in its own unique way. But what really brings me back is the people. BSPA is like one big family - the friendships, the creative team, the choreographers, the acting teachers, the MDs - we all work so closely together, often for hours on end. It's an intense environment, but it's full of passion, support and a genuine desire to see everyone succeed."
Those friendships, Oliver says, are deeper than most.
"The bonds you form at BSPA are different. You're working towards a common goal, you all love musical theatre, and you spend so much time together - sometimes more hours than you would with your schoolmates! There's a level of understanding and connection that's just on a different level."
Taking on the role of one of the Leading Players—a charismatic, mysterious narrator who guides the audience through Pippin's quest for meaning—is no small task, but Oliver is savouring the opportunity.
"This is a really exciting role," he elaborates. "It's such a powerful character - playful, commanding , sometimes dark. I love that it stretches me creatively. I'm loving diving into the character."
Pulling off a full show in just three weeks is no walk in the park. But Oliver has discovered a lot about himself through the process.
"I've realised I'm more resilient than I thought," he says. "There are times when it's physically and mentally tough, and you just have to dig deep. My mum always taught me: never give up, even when things get hard. Sometimes I'm running on pure adrenaline - but there's no better feeling than standing on that stage, doing what I love."
Beyond the music, dance and drama, Oliver credits BSPA with shaping him both on and off stage.
"On stage, I've obviously improved my acting, singing and dancing - but also my confidence, presence and teamwork," he says. "Off stage, I've learned so much: discipline, communication, creativity, even how to express emotions properly. BSPA has taught me resilience and empathy, and given me a strong work ethic I'll take into every area of my life."
Has there been a time when he's felt his confidence grow?
"Oh, absolutely," he nods. "Auditioning in front of your peers is tough - especially when you really want a role and you're up against strong talent. But I've learned to keep going, even if I don't get the part I wanted. It takes confidence to stand tall after rejection and keep supporting your friends. That kind of strength is what BSPA helps you build."
Dreaming Bigger - On and Off the Stage.
BSPA has not only given him a platform but also opened doors to other opportunities, from local theatre to screen work. "Thanks to BSPA's BSPA Casting Agency, I've had amazing experiences in film and TV, as well as with professional theatre companies," he shares.
"BSPA has definitely helped shape my future. I now have the skills and experience to take that next step in my performing journey."
Even if he didn't pursue a career in the arts, Oliver believes the benefits are lifelong. "The skills you gain - teamwork, confidence, resilience - they carry over into everything, from school to part-time jobs. Performing arts teaches you so much about life and how to connect with others."
When asked to describe BSPA in just three words, Oliver doesn't hesitate: "Passion. Opportunity. Connection.
"Everyone here is passionate about performing. The opportunities BSPA gives us to grow are incredible. And the connections - with each other, with the characters, with the choreography and the music - that's what it's all about."
And what would his advice be to someone considering joining?
"Go for it. If you're passionate about performing, BSPA will change your life. It's not always easy - it takes hard work and dedication - but it's so rewarding. You'll gain skills, confidence, and friendships that will last forever. Just be yourself, give it your all, and enjoy the ride."
Audiences can witness Oliver's stellar performance as one of the Leading Players in "Pippin", when BSPA's Summer Youth Project takes to the stage at The MAC, Belfast, on Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd August.
Prepare for spectacular dance routines, memorable melodies, vibrant characters, and a compelling tale following a young man's journey to discover meaning in an unpredictable world.
Tickets are available now via The MAC website. Featuring a cast of Northern Ireland's most gifted young performers, this is one production you won't want to miss.
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