Soham Grammarians - David Leland (1952 entry)

David Leland died on 24 December 2023. He was a BAFTA winner.
Among many obituaries that appeared were those in The Guardian, the BBC News website.

Neil Holmes 52 says "unfortunately, Dave's undoubted artistic and creative talents, and his individuality, were not appreciated by the ruling junta of the 1950s, and he left school early. He has had the last laugh, however.": his film director credits include The Land Girls (1998), Personal Services (1987), Mona Lisa (1986)

from the 1956 School photo

Cambridge Evening News Friday June 19 1964

Actor transfers to new company

David Leland aged 23, of Waterbeach who did not act seriously until he was 19, has attended the Central School of Speech and Drama London, for two years. Now he is to join a new company called the Drama Centre.

Mr Leland is the son of Mr and Mrs JT Leland, of Waterbeach. He was educated at Soham Grammar School, and after leaving school served an apprenticeship as an electrician.

At 19, he took: English classes at the Cambridgeshire College of Arts , and Technology. He joined the drama group, and appeared in several of their productions.

Teachers who recognised his ability gave him every encouragement when he decided he wanted to take up acting seriously. At 21, he auditioned for the Central School, and. was accepted as a student for three years.

Mr Leland says a drama student's life is full and interesting, with plenty of hard work and disappointments. He is proud to be one of the first students at the Drama Centre. His advice to girls and boys who would like to take up an acting career is straightforward. "Seek the help of your local education authorities," he says. "There are so many people willing to help and advise if they think you are suited to this career."

The centre to which Mr. Leland has transferred, is to provide "the versatile type of actors needed in increasing numbers by the National, 'Royal Shakespeare and Royal Court theatres."