Christopher Lee came to UCL to study medicine but quickly become an iconic figure within the university’s theatre scene, and a cornerstone of artsUCL, the Student Union’s creative community.
A celebrated student singer, producer and musical theatre performer, Chris got involved with numerous arts societies alongside his medical studies, including Jazz, Stage Crew, Live Music and Drama.
During his second year, Chris joined the Live Music Society and, on the advice of a friend, successfully ran for President. In 2024, he produced the 10th anniversary edition of Rhapsody at the Bloomsbury Theatre, a colossal feat of work involving co-managing a production of more than 200 people. The show was a great success and had a 3-night sold out run. In the same year, he also starred in the UCL Musical Theatre Society’s production of The Producers.
He credits the wider student arts community, both on and off stage, for enabling him to nurture his creative talents.
ArtsUCL has so much going for it, you get to work with likeminded creatives who want to do what you want to do. Stage Crew are also the backbone of performing. A lot of universities don’t have that kind of student body working on inhouse performances.
UCL’s commitment to the arts, and to ensuring students have the flexibility to pursue extracurricular interests, has had a lasting impact.
UCL gives people the opportunity to explore what a career might be like in the arts. Seeing fellow UCL students graduate and pursue the arts encouraged me to make that switch. I’ve met people who I really want to work with in the future.
Since graduating last summer, Chris has been part of the National Youth Theatre’s Rep company production, a 9-month, free alternative to drama school that help young performers gain experience and get a foot in the industry.
He plans to continue developing his career in the sector and wants people to remember that university isn’t just about your academic studies, but all the different parts of student life that shape your experience.
Just because you think there’s a set path in life it doesn’t mean you have to follow it. You can confound what’s expected of you.
