Claude-Michel Schönberg delivers masterclass at Ruthie Henshall’s drama school, RHCAST, in Bury St Edmunds
The renowned composer behind musicals Les Misérables and Miss Saigon visited Ruthie Henshall’s drama school to deliver a masterclass for aspiring students.
Claude-Michel Schönberg arrived at RHCAST Studios in Northgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, yesterday to speak with Year 1 and Year 2 students, offering personalised feedback on their performances, sharing career insights and answering questions about his extensive work in the musical theatre industry.
Known for composing La Révolution Française, Les Misérables, Miss Saigon, Martin Guerre, The Pirate Queen and Marguerite, his guidance was welcomed by Ruthie who praised his generosity and dedication to nurturing future talent.
She said: “They are all incredibly fortunate to be in the presence of such a legend and genius.
“I feel so privileged Claude has come here, because he’s not only a huge talent and gifted beyond, but he gives back constantly.
“He cares about the people coming next and not everyone does that.
“If I had this opportunity when I was at college, to sit in a room with Claude-Michel Schönberg and to have his wisdom on offer, I think I would have died happy at 19.”
Oliver award-winner Ruthie worked with Claude-Michel on three shows and they first met in 1989 during a production of Miss Saigon on the West End.
She initially performed in the chorus before being promoted to a leading role and Claude-Michel joked that once ‘she took centre stage, she never went back’.
Claude-Michel said he has been delivering similar master class sessions for a while and is always happy to offer students feedback to help with their development as performers.
He said: “I know doing this is good for the students, with what I can give them, or maybe I give them something they haven’t heard before.”
RHCAST opened last September in Falconbury House, a Grade-II listed building, and offers BA Hons Musical Theatre degrees.
Claude-Michel’s visit is part of an ongoing masterclass series that has also featured sessions from industry icons like Collette Guitart and Jordan Luke Gage.
