Help support me on my drama school journey :)

Hi! My name is Maria Zureiqi and I am currently studying at one of the leading drama schools in the UK ‘Emil Dale Academy’ studying musical theatre.

Performing has always been a major part of my life, I have been singing for as long as I can remember. Recently I decided to pursue performing as a career specifically in musical theatre. However, this career path is not for the weak physically or financially. Musical theatre and drama school is extremely elitist and expensive and although this is unfair to talented individuals who don’t have the funds I refuse to give up.

Although I have a student and maintenance loan it doesn’t come close to covering food, rent, bills or the cost of my course.

Due to the high contact hours of drama school and being in 5 days a week 8am - 5pm this current course is more than a typical university at a cost of £10,750.

This is £1500 more than a typical university as a private sector fee however I am currently using my maintenance loan to pay this off monthly leaving me constantly short on rent, food and bills which I must prioritise leaving me unable to pay the school.

I do manage to work a few shifts when i’m home but it is not enough to cover everything and getting a permanent job with such a full on and uncertain schedule is very difficult. I am currently looking at many ways I can work from home during this difficult time and hopefully that pays off soon.

I understand that being able to attend drama school itself is a privilege and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and experience therefore I’d love to be able to continue and not have finances make me unable to continue.

absolutely any donation is appreciated and I am forever grateful!