Currently touring the country with The Sooty Show, Kazia believes that Edge Hill University provided her with a ‘valuable’ platform to achieve her career ambitions.
Kazia, who graduated in 2019 with BA (Hons) Drama, has worked in the UK and overseas.
She said: “One of the biggest milestones in my career so far has been becoming IBM Stage Magician of the Year alongside my partner. That achievement opened the door to performing in London’s West End, which was a real ‘pinch me’ moment and something I’m incredibly proud of.
“Currently, I’m touring the UK with The Sooty Show as a Presenter and Magician, which is such a fun and rewarding role. It combines performance, audience interaction, storytelling and being part of such a well-loved show is an amazing experience.”
Reflecting on her time studying Drama at Edge Hill University, Kazia said she was drawn to the BA (Hons) Drama programme because of the wide range of opportunities to explore different performance styles and its encouragement of experimentation across physical theatre, contemporary performance and more traditional approaches.
Kazia said: “The course felt very hands-on, with lots of chances to perform, create, and collaborate while developing a versatile skill set. Visiting the campus also made a big difference. The facilities and supportive atmosphere made it feel like a place where I could really grow creatively and push myself in new directions.
Kazia explained that Edge Hill University gave her valuable opportunities to work with professional companies through the Arts Centre, helping her gain insight into the industry while developing transferable skills including teamwork, communication and time management. She also praised the support from tutors, who offered guidance on career paths, CV building and preparing for auditions and interviews.
She said: “My favourite part was the opportunity to constantly create and perform. Whether it was devising original work, collaborating with other students, or exploring different styles of theatre, there was always something new to get involved in.”
Kazia’s advice to students: “Make the most of every opportunity available to you. For me, that meant spending more time in the Arts Centre than anywhere else over the three years. I was involved in every production I could get my hands on, whether performing or supporting behind the scenes. That’s where I learned the most and really developed my skills. Get involved in as many projects, performances, and workshops as you can, because those experiences are what shape you.
“Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, some of the most rewarding moments come from trying something new. Also, build relationships with your peers and tutors, as those connections can really support you during your studies and beyond.”
Edge Hill University offers students the chance to take part in rewarding extra-curricular activities including the Sign Language Society, which Kazia got involved with.
She said: “Alongside my course, I got involved in the Sign Language Society, which was a really valuable experience. It gave me the opportunity to learn new communication skills outside of my degree and it’s something I still use in my career today. Being part of the society was both enjoyable and rewarding, it allowed me to meet people from different courses and build connections across the campus.
“It also helped me develop important skills such as communication, patience and inclusivity. Learning sign language made me more aware of accessibility and how to engage with a wider range of people, which has been incredibly beneficial both personally and professionally.”
Following her studies, Kazia embarked on performing at home and abroad, which saw her spend time working with The Blackpool Tower Circus and a year in Spain at The House of Illusion, located in Salou.
The experiences would prove to be beneficial for Kazia as she was able to enhance her skills.
She continued: “Since graduating from Edge Hill, my career has been an exciting journey of performance, travel and creative development. I went on to study for a master’s degree, where I was able to push my practice further and really refine my skills as a performer and theatre-maker.
“I then stepped straight into the industry, working professionally across a range of live productions. One of my first major highlights was performing at The Blackpool Tower Circus in the High Jinx Show. Getting to perform in such an iconic venue, with its history and scale, was an unforgettable experience and a huge step forward in my career.”
Kazia then took her career international, spending a year in Spain performing at House of Illusion.
She said: “That experience was incredible, not only was I performing regularly, but I was also adapting to different audiences and working in a fast-paced, high-energy environment. It really strengthened my confidence, versatility, and stage presence.”
Since returning to the UK, Kazia has focused on creating her own work alongside performing, describing the process of developing her own show as an exciting opportunity, to bring together everything she has learned while shaping her own creative voice.
During her career, Kazia has achieved many milestones that have made her proud.
Kazia concluded: “Looking back, it’s been a fast-paced and varied journey so far, full of opportunities to perform, travel, create and grow and I’m really excited to see where it goes next.”
Find out more about studying BA (Hons) Drama at Edge Hill University.
May 15, 2026
