THE son of the former Vicar of Tavistock has reached his goal of performing in the West End. Mark Rawlings, son of the Venerable John Rawlings, Archdeacon of Totnes, has been performing in the legendary Shakespeare play ?Macbeth? to enthusiastic crowds at the Gielgud Theatre. Not only does Mark act in a play which has seen rave reviews from national newspapers, he also performs side-by-side with renowned international actor, Patrick Stewart. Mark, 37, plays Lennox, one of the Scottish Lords. Although he has a small speaking role, Mark is on stage for most of the performance with many well-known actors. After the production of Macbeth finishes in the West End, the cast will be heading to New York for several weeks. A former pupil at Plymouth College, Mark originally thought he would one day become a doctor. After studying at Dundee University, Mark was offered the chance of a research degree at Oxford University and immersed himself in genetics. But he had always loved amateur dramatics and acted in the Theatre Royal Drum in Plymouth in many productions. His theatrical pursuits continued through university and he played Romeo in ?Romeo and Juliet? in Oxford, eventually deciding to turn his back on science and making acting his career. He was accepted at London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) and enjoyed three years at the academy, and was supported by some well-known actors who have become household names. But the opportunity to play in Rupert Goold?s production of Macbeth was the chance of a lifetime for Mark. Mr Rawlings, who was Tavistock?s vicar for 14 years, said Mark always wanted to make a career out of acting, and set his heart on being in a major Shakespeare play. He said: ?Mark is very excited ? this is something he really wanted to do. We are very proud of him and he has done so well. ?Mark is enormously grateful to many people in Tavistock for their support, encouragement and sponsorship during his time at drama school. ?Like so many actors have found, it has been a long haul with some disappointments, but his determination and commitment to acting has been acknowledged and the future looks very exciting.?
