A MAN who “belongs on the stage” is clowning around to fund his drama training.

Alex Canwell, of Walpole Terrace, Brighton, has created a video asking the public to help him in his ‘calling’ – a theatre career.

In the video Mr Canwell, 26, plays a jester appealing for donations.

He said: “I do it because it is what I love. I see no point living in the shadows. My dad used to say: ‘You belong on the stage’ – in my subconscious that’s always been there.”

Mr Canwell moved to the coast from London last year. He left university three years ago with a degree in music production and has been working on new dance music.

He said: “The only way the world can advance is if each individual does what they want to do in their lives without hurting other people.”

He was accepted on a course at the Academy Of Creative Training in Brighton and has to raise £8,000 to pay for his two-year diploma.

He hit problems when his bank refused him a government-accredited career development loan.

Mr Canwell said: “The arts aren’t pushed for. They don’t see me as a viable financial option.

“But instead of crying about it I made a video to promote my cause and crowdfund my education.”

Mr Canwell wants to work in physical theatre, touring with a company that “represents real matters”.

He said: “I can’t change the world on my own but I can make changes in my own life and make it as enjoyable as I can.

Janette Eddisford, principal at the Academy Of Creative Training, said: “Alex is a naturally gifted young actor with masses of potential.

“I fully support his fundraising endeavours and assure any potential patron that he will be a solid investment.”

Mr Canwell has raised nearly £500 so far of his £8,000 target.

He said: “It sounds like a lot but it’s small in the drama world.”

Visit https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/5tZYd/ab/84Agwe to donate.