Clare as Margaret Thatcher in Maggie and Ted at the Garrick Theatre, West End
Clare Bloomer is a RADA graduate with many impressive stage credits to her name, with performances in the UK and Europe. Her range covers anything from Shakespeare to 20th Century heavyweights like Arthur Miller and Noel Coward, and even sharply observed political biopic. Her expertise even extends backstage, running her own theatre company, Essential Stage.
Since 2014, Clare Bloomer has brought a deep passion for acting and professional stage experience to the Musical Theatre pathway at London Studio Centre, instilling both curiosity and a disciplined work-ethic in her students. Her journey as a member of faculty saw her begin as a cover Acting Tutor, before being promoted to Subject Leader in Acting in 2016. In 2022, she was made interim Artistic Director of Seedtime, with a view to fill the role for one year. Her dedication to the craft, as well as the professional development of our final year Musical Theatre students, made her a perfect fit for the role. She was soon offered the role on a permanent basis.
Where did you train?
I trained as an actor at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), which I would say were the best three years of my life. Prior to RADA I went to Durham University where I studied English, Philosophy and History (I have a BA Hons in Combined Arts). Whilst at Durham I performed in many plays and was the President of Durham Student Theatre.
What was a formative moment growing up that made you want to perform?
I remember being in a ‘drama’ class in primary school and the teacher asked, ‘can somehow show me what a peacock walks like?’ Without thinking twice my arm shot up, the teacher then picked me, and I broke out in a sweat and walked across the floor as a peacock as though my life depended on it. When I sat down the teacher said, ‘there you are everyone, that is how a peacock walks’. I didn’t know what you called this, but I was hooked from that moment.
What were some career highlights before you started teaching?
In my final year of RADA, I was cast as Fania Fenelon in Arthur Miller’s Playing for Time (we presented the UK premiere). I was the lead role in this powerful and devastating play. I didn’t leave the stage for more than 2 hours straight. It was the most thrilling thing I had ever done to date.
Since then, two roles stand out for me: playing Margaret Thatcher (which will be reprised in 2026) and playing Shylock inThe Merchant of Venice at The Globe Theatre in Rome. Playing Shakespeare outside in a theatre of that scale is a magnificent feeling. Watching the light change from day to night as you talk to the sky, whilst the birds swoop in and out of view, is unforgettable.
Clare as Tracey in 21 Round for Christmas at The Hope Theatre, Offie Nominated for Lead Performance in a Play
How have your career experiences influenced your teaching?
Before I go on stage I am overcome with nerves, so I completely relate to any anxiety a student may have about performance. I understand that nerves are natural, and it is great that we can relate to each other. Also, I never ask my students to do something I am not prepared to do myself. As a performer I teach acting from the inside. Not all acting teachers are performers, but I think students find it very reassuring when they are.
What do you bring to Seedtime Musical Theatre Company as Artistic Director?
I work with integrity and have respect for the art form, and I never shy away from challenges. It is often in the challenge that we find the creative solution. I know that creating great work requires a deep connection and commitment. I bring that commitment to my company and encourage them to make their own connection to their craft. I also bring the understanding that it is acting that underpins and connects the disparate elements that make up musical theatre – speech, song and dance.
Can you give a hint as to what is in store from the 2026 Seedtime production?
I have a feeling this year might be iconic. I want the students to experience a show that would be fulfilling a dream for many… watch this space.
Do you have a proudest LSC moment you can share?
Interestingly, most of my proudest moments happen in the privacy of the rehearsal studio. If I set up the class/rehearsal well, then it is a real thrill to witness students challenge themselves and do things they never thought possible; my proudest moments are when they break through and go beyond their perceived limits.
For any prospective applicant interested in the Musical Theatre pathway, how would you advise them to prepare for Higher Education?
Musical Theatre Training is rigorous and strenuous: it needs a strong mind and body. I believe performers are athletes and stamina must be developed. However, performers must also yield and flow and that is the wonderful dichotomy of our art form.
Strength and stamina can be prepped in advance. But I would also recommend that an interested applicant practices the art they love as much as possible (without judgement) and goes to see as much as they can.
Clare (left) as Shylock in The Merchant of Venice at the Globe Theatre, Rome
How is London Studio Centre different from anywhere else you have trained or worked?
Because the expectations placed on students are continuous and demanding, the environment at LSC is paradoxically very nurturing, with a robust Student Welfare offering. This sense of family is what makes LSC feel unique. In addition, LSC enables students to chart quite individual journeys. Students are encouraged not to compare themselves with others and to understand that not only are they unique, but that their paths are unique.
At LSC, we see the person behind the skillset and that is where training has changed over the years for the better. In addition, LSC offers the ‘Company’ experience in third year. The first two years are spent training together across all pathways, so there is a wonderful sense of cohesion across the conservatoire. In their final year, students work only within their pathway. This really focuses the training and takes the work to a new level.
The Witches of Eastwick, Seedtime Musical Theatre Company, 2025
The 2026 Seedtime Musical Theatre production promises to be a hit show, with plenty of toe-tapping tunes, belly laughs and dramatic moments. We can’t say what it is yet, but keep an eye on our Events page to find out soon!
Cover photo: Clare as Sonya in Afterplay by Brian Friel