Zain Sutherland, a former Bury College Performing Arts student, is currently thriving in his career on stage and credits the Performing Arts department as a big reason for this success.

The 29-year-old achieved a Triple Distinction on the course and since leaving has performed in stage adaptations of Wind in the Willows, Night Flight a New Musical, Peter Pan, Jesus Christ Superstar and Robin Hood. He’s currently touring with Demon Dentist, a stage version of David Walliams’s popular book.

Zain is going to come in and do a workshop for the current crop of aspiring performers in October when the tour hits Manchester. 

Andy Tomlinson, Head of School of Performance, said: “He is an ideal role model for our current learners, and we are so proud of his continued success and achievements.”

Zain told us: “My two years of studying Performing Arts at Bury College were two of the best years of my life. In addition to meeting some of my closest friends, the level of training we received was outstanding, I don’t feel I could have been any more prepared to move onto stage school than after finishing Performing Arts at Bury College. 

“It is a safe and supportive environment where we could be creative and thrive, but at the same time, we were taught a level of discipline that I’ve used throughout my life inside and out of this industry. A flame I never knew I had was lit in me by the tutors, and I know I wouldn’t be doing what I am today without them. So, thank you!”

Zain’s Stage and commercial credits:

  • Demon Dentist (UK Tour and Westend 22/23)
  • Wind in the Willows (Taunton Brewhouse)
  • Night Flight a New Musical (Oxford)
  • Peter Pan (QE2, Dubai)
  • Jesus Christ Superstar (St Mary’s Cathedral)
  • Robin Hood (Italian Tour)
  • Sekonda Watches (Academy)
  • Nando’s (Friend)
  • Macmillan (Flare Productions)
  • Canon Printer (Canon Group)
  • Barclays Bank (Sam Hibbard)

If you have been inspired by Zain’s journey to success, take a look at our Performing Arts courses here: https://burycollege.ac.uk/courses/vocational/performing-arts-level-3 

Latest News

two former students stood outside

Former Bury College Supported Internship students Isla and Abigail have secured jobs, using the skills, confidence and work experience gained through the programme to progress into careers they enjoy.

curriculum staff stood in a line holding certificates

Bury College staff have developed their mentoring and coaching skills through a professional development programme, gaining practical techniques to support colleagues, build confidence and encourage professional growth across the Further Education sector.

Freedom Fire employees stood in a line

Three former Bury College T Level students have secured permanent paid roles at local business Freedom Fire following their industry placements, gaining valuable workplace experience and developing the skills to progress into their careers.

three students in different classroom settings

Discover how Bury College T Level students Ciara, Tejan and Darcey have used practical experience and industry placements to develop their skills and progress to university, ready for their future careers in nursing, sports journalism and teaching.

Bury College Dental Apprentice employer smiling at the camera inside the dental practice

Bury College proudly collaborates with local businesses to create opportunities for learners to gain valuable experience in the workplace. One of those businesses is Brandlesholme Dentistry, who currently employ Apprentices through the College.

A former Bury College adult learner smiling at the camera in a hairdressing salon

Read about Laura’s journey from adult learner to business owner.