Former learner takes centre stage in The Simon & Garfunkel Story

A former Preston’s College learner has landed a lead role in the UK’s theatre production of The Simon & Garfunkel Story.

Former Performing Arts student, Kingsley Judd, will line up alongside a full cast of talented actor-musicians playing the part of legendary vocalist Art Garfunkel.

The critically acclaimed concert style show, direct from a sell-out worldwide tour, has come to the UK and is the biggest touring theatre show with a live band. Kingsley will join the new crop of performers in January when the current cast’s their tour ends at the end of this year.

Studying at Preston’s College from 2011 – 2013, Kingsley gained a Level 3 qualification in Performing Arts before progressing onto the University of Chichester studying BA (Hons) Music & Musical Theatre from 2013 – 2016.

Throughout his degree, Kinglsey continued to build his theatre experience by featuring in several musicals including Sweeney Todd, The Phantom of the Opera and Jesus Christ Superstar. On completion of his university course, Kingsley landed a role as lead vocalist with P&O Cruises in 2017 and Viking Cruises in 2018.

Now, the 24-year-old is preparing to take centre stage as Art Garfunkel, telling the tale of the popular music duo and reliving their journey to fame.

The production takes a look into the twosome’s humble beginnings in the 1960s, through their roaring success, dramatic break-up and topping off the show with a stunning recreation of their reformation concert at Central Park in 1981.

Of course the show is complimented by Simon & Garfunkel’s hits including ‘Mrs Robinson’, ‘Cecilia’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Homeward Bound’ and many more.

Jane Tudor, Head of School for Visual & Performing Arts at Preston’s College, said: “We are extremely proud of what Kingsley has achieved in his short career to date and have no doubt that he will be a success in the role of Art Garfunkel.

“Like many former learners, Kingsley has taken his skills, knowledge and experience gained from Preston’s College and has applied them both at University and in the workplace.

“Our Performing Arts programmes try to provide learners with as much industry exposure as possible to help develop their skills outside the College studios, ultimately making learners the most employable they can be.”

Dean Elliott, Producer of The Simon & Garfunkel Story, said: “Kingsley is an amazing Art Garfunkel!

“Not only is he extremely talented, with the voice of an angel, but he is also a really nice guy who is hardworking and easy to get along with.

“We can’t wait for him to join us on our adventure throughout the UK, International and West End.”

Tickets for the show are still available at a range of locations across the UK and are available here.

Preston’s College offer Performing Arts courses from Entry to Level 3.