Simon Balcon

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Self Employed

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

A number of theatre tours, plays, short films and events as a performer. I have also had several roles in TV and background work in feature films.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I think it chose me, I’ve wanted to be an actor for as long as I can remember!

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

Yes, the G&S Society, Jiu-Jitsu

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

The satisfaction of producing performances for the end of the course, exhausting but a real eye opener!

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

I made a number of life long friends, many of whom I met while performing in student productions, and the extra curricular time with tutors and support staff.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

It the was the best course of its kind at the time.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

The ability to persevere despite hearing ‘No’ a lot, and also the desire to keep learning; this job is a craft and something that you can always find a means of deepening and refining.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Be in love with the job, whatever it is you decide to do with your life at the time, but most especially acting. Perseverance is the key!

What are your plans for the future?

To keep going!