Course provides springboard to acting career

Leon Tulloch (professionally known by his stage name, Leon T. Howitt) graduated with a BA (Hons) in Acting (Creative Performance Practice) from Leicester College, a course validated by De Montfort University.

Leon is described by his lecturers as a ‘model student with a positive attitude, fearless, exciting as a performer, (who) will go onto achieve great things’.

Born in Guyana, South America, Leon moved to the UK with his mother at just three months old. After living in London and near Birmingham, his family relocated to Doncaster in 2014. Two years ago, Leon moved to Leicester to pursue his course at Leicester College and follow his dreams.

Why the course at Leicester College?

Leon explains: “There were many reasons as to why I chose the course - one of the main reasons was the course only being two years long, which really stood out to me as it meant that I wouldn’t be behind after taking a year out after graduating from college in 2020.

“The course also offers a lot of training, not just for becoming an actor but also trains you to excel behind the scenes such as operating the camera, learning about different shots and lighting, and understanding the role of a director - all of which was appealing to me, as I would love to direct my own stuff one day.

“On the course, they help to put you on Spotlight (the directory for casting opportunities) and that sealed it for me, being able to get access to this amazing platform where you can really advance your career. It’s also where my agent discovered me.

“The lecturers and College staff provided excellent support throughout my time on the course, especially when my student finance was delayed and I struggled to pay my rent. They helped me to resolve the issue quickly and it was sorted out in just a few days.”

Where the passion for acting started

Leon said: “I've always been interested in performing arts and acting. Like many, I went through a phase of wanting to be a footballer, but I always returned to acting. I’d perform for my mum after her long shifts to cheer her up, and I took part in after-school clubs and shows whenever I could.

“Kevin Hart is an actor I’ve always looked up to, and one of my dreams is to star in a movie with him. As a black man, he’s just so relatable. I admire his humour and how he turns something people might see as a negative, like being shorter, into a positive. I also love Will Smith and would love to work with him, especially in a film like ‘Creed’, as I box on the side.”

Next steps and future aspirations

Leon continues: “My agent is helping me to find opportunities while I’ve been working on various things. I have a part-time job to support my career, and I’m also using social media as both an additional income source and a way to gain experience in front of the camera and engage with people.

“I’d love to be like Jordan Peele—an actor who also directs. Whilst I’m drawn to comedy, I don’t want to be typecast like Jim Carrey or Eddie Murphy, whose serious roles sometimes go underappreciated. Instead, I’d like to follow Will Smith’s path and become a more versatile actor.”

Recommending the course to other students

“I would recommend this course to hardworking individuals who are ready for a challenge. It's easy to enjoy something when it's simple, but many quit when things get tough. If you're motivated and willing to put in the effort, this course is for you.

“If you're also interested in learning about the behind-the-scenes aspects of acting, such as live shows, camera work and equipment setup, this course is for you. It's a versatile option, especially for those who prefer working off-camera rather than performing in front of it.

 “If you're nervous about moving to a new city, especially from a smaller one like I did, it can feel intimidating, but it's a valuable experience. It makes you appreciate things that you may take for granted, like your parents' help with meals and chores. I'd recommend it, as it opens your eyes, helps you mature, teaches you to manage your finances, and take care of your mental and physical health,” Leon concludes.