Actress Jodi hopes to follow in the footsteps of Kirk Douglas and Kim Cattrall

Former Kineton High School pupil Jodi Ferguson could follow in the footsteps of famous actors and actresses such as Kirk Douglas and Kim Cattrall if she joins the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in September.

The scholarship could lead to the 17-year-old being able to audition for Broadway musicals, television shows and films.

Jodi said: “I wanted to do a bit of everything, films musicals and plays, and New York is a pretty good place to be able to do that. The main base is acting but they also teach dance and I want to keep up singing because I love doing that as well.”

Having auditioned in London, Jodi received an unconditional offer from the school and was also offered a place at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts, Her course could last up to three years but she needs sponsorship to cover some of her fees and living costs.

She will hold fundraising events and is prepared to work part-time while studying.

Jodi said: “A lot of my family live in America and I go there fairly regularly.

“I went to New York for my 16th birthday and I loved it. I’m just really hoping, it would be good if I could get any money.”

Jodi has recently performed in a version of the Hobbit at her Majesty’s Theatre in the West End and appeared as an extra in the BBC drama Waterloo Road.

Inspired by actresses such as Kristin Chenoweth, she studied A levels in performing arts and media at Stratford College and is a member of Leamington-based theatre school Stagecoach. The theatre’s principal Jacqui Dance said: “A number of performances Jodi has done for us have been fantastic and really memorable.

“We’re really hoping she gets to New York because she’s really talented.”

Anyone interested in sponsoring Jodi should call 07917 108502.