The Board of Trustees is pleased to announce an update on the recruitment of a new Chair of the Board of Trustees. To ensure alignment with our recent recruitment process for our new Principal, we have partnered with Odgers Berndtson to support us in this important appointment.
We are pleased to announce that the Trustees have appointed Peridot Partners to commence the search for ArtsEd’s new Chair of Trustees.
Peridot Partners, renowned for their Board Search programme, bring over 12 years of experience in recruiting individuals to boards, executive positions and specialist functional roles in similar institutions. Operating as a sector-leading specialist, Peridot Partners has garnered acclaim for their work in charity, non-profit, health, and education sectors. Their values strongly resonate with ArtsEd, particularly their unwavering commitment to inclusivity and excellence across all sectors.
“The Chair of the Board is a vital role for ArtsEd, providing effective leadership to our governance structures, including chairing the Board of Trustees. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the entire organisation, we would like to extend our gratitude to Farida Mannan for stepping up as the Acting Chair during this transitional period.
As the pinnacle of leadership within ArtsEd, the Chair plays a pivotal role in guiding our institution. Through our collaboration with Peridot Partners, we are confident in finding a Chair who not only shares our organisational values but also possesses the capability to lead us as we deliver exceptional performing arts education.”
Ruth Mundy, Trustee and Chair of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee
We are excited about the opportunities this partnership brings and look forward to welcoming our new Chair of Trustees to the ArtsEd community.
ArtsEd is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff (permanent and visiting) and volunteers to share this commitment; all staff are required to undergo background checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023 regulations and to hold an enhanced DBS.
It’s been nearly two months since we bid farewell to our BA Class of 2024, and we couldn’t be prouder as we watch them thrive on stage and screen. Their graduation was a momentous occasion that brought together students, faculty, and prominent guests to celebrate the exceptional achievements of this year’s cohort. The packed venue was filled with heartwarming reflections on the students’ hard work, passion, and dedication as they prepared to embark on their professional journeys in the performing arts industry.
Notable attendees included David Grindrod, esteemed casting director and ArtsEd’s Vice President, along with Samuel Creasey, a celebrated alumnus from the School of Acting, Class of 2020. The Mayor of Hounslow and several of ArtsEd’s trustees also joined the celebrations, highlighting the strong community ties and support for these future stars of stage and screen.
The ceremony featured inspiring speeches from both the School of Acting and School of Musical Theatre, with staff and students alike reflecting on the significance of the day and the exciting future awaiting the Class of 2024. The event was further elevated by a stunning performance from the Class of 2025 Musical Theatre students, whose talent and enthusiasm filled the room with energy and applause.
One of the standout achievements of the Class of 2024 is that an impressive 97% of students graduated with external agency representation—a testament to the high calibre of training and industry connections at ArtsEd. This support means our graduates are well-positioned to thrive in their careers, whether on stages or screens around the globe.
As part of the celebrations, the Class of 2004 podcast, Life After Jazz Hands, captured interviews with students and their families, offering a nostalgic and heartfelt glimpse into the personal journeys of this year’s graduates. These conversations highlighted not only the transformative impact of their time at ArtsEd but also their excitement for the future. You can listen to their ArtsEd graduation podcast on Spotify and Apple Music below.
After the ceremony, the celebrations continued at ArtsEd with a lively drinks reception, where graduates, staff, and guests toasted to the next chapter. The event was a fitting close to an unforgettable day, marking both the end of an era and the beginning of bright, exciting careers for the Class of 2024.
We are immensely proud of all that the Class of 2024 has achieved and wish them continued success as they make their mark in the performing arts industry. Their talent, resilience, and dedication will undoubtedly carry them far. Congratulations once again, Class of 2024! We can’t wait to see where your journeys take you next.
School of Acting, Class of 2024, Graduates
Senam Akpokavi
Jude Blake
Calum Blanche
Mark Bojan
Grace Carroll
Lois Churcher
Garon Akbar Clark
Jordan Daley
Kevin Donkor
Harry Ferguson
Mackenzie Gilbert
Jaden Hamilton
Charles Harris
Samuel Joliffe
Nia Jordan
Amrita Mangat
Neo Merrell
Eliska Milay
Joseph Modebe
Eve Murray
Esther Oladele
Julia Penteado
Olivia Rembges
Jaylen Roberts
Jake Rory
Tia Shivpuri
Brock Warren
Sophie Wolstencroft
School of Musical Theatre, Class of 2024, Graduates
Olivia Bella
Lionel Robert Blanc
Dan Burstow
Hayden Cable
Maya Khatri Chhetri
Jesse Chidera
Finley Davies
Ben Fenwick
Emily Florence
Asher Forth
Ella Foster
Josie Garner
Georgia Gaudencio
Alex Gavin
Charlie Geoghegan
Will Hardy
Alex Hayden
Max James Hodge
Will Hopkins
Emilia Paige Jurin
Esme Kennedy
Al Knott
Mia Kobayashi
Mia Lamb
Harrison Langham
Josh Latunji
Olivia Leah
Tom Major
Mimi Maskrey
Reece McGowan
Zara McLellan
Stevie Millington
Kayna Montecillo
Taylor Morris
Max Mulrenan
Choolwe Laina Muntanga
Hayes Nolan
Jayde Nolan
Aislin Olivia
Yujin Park
Maisie-Kate Robertson
Giorgia Romeo
Joe Simmons
Sedona Sky
Harry Grant Smith
Nkara Stephenson
Emily Takman
Elsie Grace Ward
Emily Whitby-Samways
Joel Wilding
Anne-Marie Wojna
Applications are now open for 2025!
Applications are now open for our 2025 intake, and we invite aspiring performers to join ArtsEd’s vibrant community. Whether your interests lie in acting or musical theatre, ArtsEd offers world-class training, industry connections, and a nurturing environment that will help you thrive in your professional career.
If you’re ready to follow in the footsteps of our recent graduates and make your mark in the performing arts, we encourage you to apply now and start your journey with us. Visit the links below for more information on the application process and upcoming audition dates.
We are thrilled to announce that applications are now open across all of our courses at ArtsEd, spanning from Day School to our renowned undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Excitingly, this year, we’ve already seen a record number of applications—surpassing last year’s figures at this time—making now the perfect time to apply and secure your place at one of the UK’s leading performing arts schools.
Here’s a breakdown of our diverse course offerings:
ArtsEd’s Day School provides a dynamic combination of academic excellence and performing arts education. Students benefit from a well-rounded curriculum where their passion for acting, dance, and musical theatre is nurtured alongside traditional academic subjects. This holistic approach ensures that students are not only well-prepared for future academic or vocational pathways but also encouraged to develop confidence, creativity, and individuality. The school offers a supportive and inclusive environment, allowing students to flourish both artistically and academically.
The ArtsEd Sixth Form offers a flexible and enriching educational experience with various pathways that enable students to balance academic achievement with performance training. Students can choose from three BTEC qualifications—Acting, Dance, and Musical Theatre—and 11 A Levels. The BTEC courses offer in-depth, practical training designed for students looking to enter the performing arts industry, while the A Level option provides more traditional academic qualifications alongside performance opportunities. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their future aspirations, whether that’s pursuing higher education or entering the performance industry.
The Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) Acting course is a one-year programme designed for those looking to develop foundational skills in acting and prepare for degree-level study or professional acting. The course focuses on building confidence and core skills in acting, voice, and movement, with practical projects and performances throughout the year. It serves as an intensive preparation for those looking to continue their training in the arts or step directly into the industry.
Audition Process:
The 1st round auditions for Full-time Foundation – Acting will take place online. You will need to film yourself performing two audition speeches at home and as per the instructions on the auditions page. You will then combine these two speeches into a single video, which you will upload for our audition panel to assess.
2nd round recalls will be in person at our Chiswick home and will involve you spending a day working with course tutors and getting a real sense of life at ArtsEd.
The Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) Musical Theatre course is also a one-year intensive programme, offering comprehensive training in singing, acting, and dance. Like its acting counterpart, this course provides a solid foundation for students aiming to continue their studies in performing arts or begin a career in musical theatre. Students work on key performance skills through workshops, classes, and public performances.
Audition Process:
The auditions for our Full-time Foundation in Musical Theatre will be in person and will take place at ArtsEd. You will spend your time working with course tutors and getting a real sense of life as an ArtsEd student. This is a single round process, with offers made on the basis of day that you spend with us. Once you have applied, we will send you full details of the format of the day as well as a full version of the audition requirements.
ArtsEd’s BA (Hons) Acting course is a three-year degree known for its 50:50 balance between stage and screen acting. The programme emphasises developing a versatile actor through training in acting techniques (Stanislavsky, Meisner, and more), voice, movement, and combat. Students engage in text analysis, improvisation, and performance projects, which include contemporary and classical theatre, as well as screen acting. With professional development opportunities such as a West End showcase and TV showreel creation, graduates leave fully prepared for a career in theatre, film, and television.
Audition Process:
The 1st round auditions for BA Acting will take place online. You will need to film yourself performing two audition speeches at home and as per the instructions on our auditions page. You will then combine these two speeches into a single video, which you will upload for our audition panel to assess.
2nd round recalls will be in person at ArtsEd in Chiswick and will involve you spending a day working with course tutors and getting a real sense of life at drama school.
This rigorous three-year BA (Hons) Musical Theatre course is highly regarded within the industry for producing versatile performers who are adept at acting, singing, and dancing. The curriculum covers a wide range of skills, from vocal training and dance techniques to acting and stagecraft, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of musical theatre. Students participate in numerous public performances and industry showcases, making this course ideal for those seeking a career on the stage or screen.
Audition Process:
All auditions for our BA Musical Theatre course will take place in person at our Chiswick home. The 1st and 2nd rounds take place on the same day and will include a tour of the facilities and an opportunity to talk to staff and students.
Recalls are scheduled as necessary and will also take place at ArtsEd.
Once you have applied, we will send you full details of the format of the day as well as a full version of the audition requirements outlined below.
The MA in Acting is a highly competitive, one-year programme. This full-time, intensive course is designed to equip students with advanced acting techniques and the practical skills necessary for a successful career in stage, screen, and audio. The curriculum includes training in methods like Stanislavsky, Meisner, and Chekhov, alongside movement, voice, and professional employment skills. Students showcase their talents through public performances and an industry-facing showcase in London’s West End. This program is ideal for those seeking to elevate their craft and gain direct access to industry professionals.
Audition Process:
All first-round auditions will take place online. You will film yourself performing two audition speeches at home and as per the instructions on our auditions page. You will then combine these two speeches into a single video, which you will upload for our audition panel to assess.
Recalls will be in person at our Chiswick home and will involve you spending a day working with course tutors and getting a real sense of life at ArtsEd.
Not Ready for Full-Time Training? Explore Our Part-Time Foundation Courses
If you’re passionate about performing arts but unsure if full-time training is right for you, ArtsEd offers Part-Time Foundation Courses in both Acting and Musical Theatre. These courses are perfect for those who want to develop their skills while balancing other commitments, such as work or study. Designed to boost your confidence and prepare you for drama school auditions or a career in the industry, the part-time courses run over two intensive terms with classes held three evenings a week and additional full-day workshops on Sundays.
Part-Time Foundation in Acting: This course helps you explore the fundamentals of acting, including screen performance, audition technique, voice, movement, and more. It provides the perfect opportunity to experience vocational actor training and decide if this is the path you want to follow.
Part-Time Foundation in Musical Theatre: Focusing on all three core disciplines—acting, singing, and dance—this course helps you refine your audition repertoire and performance skills. It’s an excellent introduction to the rigours of musical theatre training.
Both courses provide a strong foundation for future study, with many students progressing to full-time programmes at top drama schools. If you’re looking to gain confidence and test your potential, our part-time foundation courses offer the flexibility you need.
Our courses are designed with a strong industry focus, offering unrivalled access to leading professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, and numerous opportunities to showcase your talents. Whether you’re taking your first steps in performance or honing your skills at the postgraduate level, ArtsEd has the right program for you.
Don’t miss out! Apply now and join us at ArtsEd to be part of a thriving community that nurtures talent and prepares you for success in the performing arts industry.
We are pleased to announce that we have commenced the recruitment process for a new Principal to lead ArtsEd.
To support us in finding the ideal candidate, Odgers, a leading executive search firm, has been appointed. The position is being advertised on prominent platforms such as Diversity Jobsite and The Guardian to attract a broad and diverse pool of applicants.
“As we embark on the search for a new Principal, we are focused on finding a visionary leader who shares our passion for the performing arts and our commitment to educational excellence. This is an exciting time for ArtsEd, and we look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead for our students, staff, and the entire community.” Farida Mannan, Acting Chair of Trustees.
This recruitment marks a significant step in the future of ArtsEd as we continue to uphold our commitment to providing world-class education in the performing arts. We are confident that this process will attract a leader who shares our dedication to excellence and inclusivity. We look forward to the opportunities that this new chapter will bring.
ArtsEd is thrilled to celebrate the exceptional achievements of seven of our alumni, who have been nominated for the prestigious Black British Theatre Awards (BBTAs) 2024. These nominations are a testament to the extraordinary talent, dedication, and hard work of our graduates, who continue to make waves in the theatre industry.
The Black British Theatre Awards, first established in 2019, are the UK’s only awards celebrating the excellence of Black performers and creatives. Founded by Solange Urdang and Omar F. Okai, the BBTAs aim to shine a light on black talent, honour their accomplishments, and accelerate opportunities for black theatre professionals. With categories that span across acting, writing, and technical production, the BBTAs have become a vital platform for recognising the outstanding contributions of black artists in UK theatre.
This year, the ArtsEd family is incredibly proud to announce that seven of our graduates have been nominated for awards in a variety of categories, showcasing the breadth of talent nurtured within our school:
Sedona Sky: Nominated for Best Graduate for her performance as Heather Duke in Heathers the Musical.
Joshua-Alexander Williams: Nominated for Best Graduate and Best Supporting Male Actor in a Play for his role of Mercutio in Romeo & Juliet.
Marley Fenton: Nominated for Best Supporting Male Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of The Tin Man in Wizard of Oz.
Lucie Lutte: Nominated for Best Playwright for her original work Phone Killer.
Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky: Nominated for Best Leading Female Actor in a Musical for her performance as Kathryn in Cruel Intentions.
Ashley Campbell: Nominated for Best Supporting Male Actor in a Musical for his role of Jim in Just For One Day.
Monique Jonas: Nominated for Best Dance Production or Performer for her role of Juliet in Romeo & Juliet
“We are incredibly proud of Joshua-Alexander and Lucie for their outstanding achievements and well-deserved nominations at the Black British Theatre Awards. Their dedication, resilience, and talent have shone through in their performance and creative work. Seeing our graduates receive such prestigious recognition is a testament to their training at ArtEd and hard work. We are excited to see them continue to thrive and make a lasting impact in the theatre industry.” Kim Vithana, Director of the School of Acting at ArtsEd
Heather's The Musical
So Here We Are
Wizard of Oz
Phone Killer
Cruel Intentions
Just For One Day
Romeo & Juliet
“We are delighted to see so many of our graduates nominated in this year’s Black British Theatre Awards. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the amazing artists that their work is recognised and celebrated. We are particularly proud of the graduates from the School of Musical Theatre: Ashley Campbell, Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky, Marley Fenton and Sedona Sky. Congratulations to you all! It’s a joy that their work is recognised and that they are outstanding ambassadors for the School of Musical Theatre and ArtsEd.” Jonathan O’Boyle, Director of the School of Musical Theatre at ArtsEd
The BBTAs celebrate not only the achievements of individual artists but also serve as a vital initiative to promote diversity, visibility, and opportunity within the UK theatre industry. The awards, which have previously been hosted by industry giants like Cynthia Erivo, Danny Sapani, and Giles Terera, stand as a crucial reminder of the importance of inclusion and representation in theatre. Each year, anyone can nominate their favourite performers or productions, with eligibility criteria ensuring that nominees are either British nationals or have resided in the UK for at least three years.
“We are incredibly proud of Monique Jonas and her nomination for the Black British Theatre Awards. Monique’s dedication, passion, and talent have shone brightly since her time at ArtsEd’s Day School & Sixth Form, and it’s inspiring to see her continue to achieve such remarkable success in the industry. She is a fantastic role model for our current students, and we wish her every success as she continues to make her mark in the world of dance and theatre.”
Natalie Bareham, Director of Performing Arts – DSSF at ArtsEd
At ArtsEd, we are proud of the diverse talent we help to develop, and it is thrilling to see our alumni being recognised for their contributions to the arts. These nominations reflect not only their individual brilliance but also the collective effort of the ArtsEd community to foster creativity, resilience, and excellence in our students.
The BBTAs continue to illuminate, celebrate, and accelerate the careers of black theatre professionals through new initiatives, including outreach programmes, workshops, and mentorships, aimed at securing a more equitable future for Black artists. With our alumni leading the way in these accolades, we are confident that their achievements will inspire future generations of performers and creatives at ArtsEd and beyond.
We wish Sedona, Joshua-Alexander, Marley, Lucie, Rhianne-Louise, Ashley and Monique the best of luck at the awards, and we look forward to continuing to support them as they grow in their careers.
Following on the heels of an excellent set of A Level and BTEC results, ArtsEd pupils are celebrating today after achieving some superb results in their GCSEs.
In a year when ArtsEd had its largest number of GCSE entries, 100% of Year 11 students achieved 9-4 in Maths and in one English GCSE, 98% of results were graded 9-4 (up 2% on 2019) and the percentage of grades 9-7 was 46% (up 3% on 2019). These results are extremely impressive – not only are they an improvement on 2023, but crucially they exceed the excellent pre-pandemic results of 2019, which were the School’s best results since GCSEs were reformed.
‘It is wonderful to be able to celebrate such a fantastic, record-breaking, set of results today. Our pupils, their parents and their teachers can be incredibly proud of these achievements. Their enormous hard work and dedication have paid off – many congratulations to them all. Our ethos provides a broad and balanced education which excites, challenges, and inspires our students to achieve their potential. I am delighted that, coupled with individualised support that enables pupils to realise their academic and vocational potential, this has been reflected in these outstanding results. We look forward to welcoming those returning Year 11s into our Sixth Form in September, alongside our new students, as they continue with their academic and vocation journeys; our best wishes go with pupils who will continue their education elsewhere.’
Peter Middleton, Headteacher
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Our Sixth Form curriculum allows Sixth Form students to immerse themselves in the subjects that they love; they can study a variety of different courses that include A levels and BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma qualifications. This enables them to focus entirely on their vocational development or pursue academic interests alongside their passion for the performing arts.
At the heart of supporting this success is the ‘ArtsEd Curriculum’ – in which daily vocational training of the highest quality is rooted and integrated within the academic programme. This was recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in the most recent inspection, when they awarded the School the highest accolade – an area of significant strength:
‘The Standards that pupils achieve in performing arts, in line with the school’s expressed aims, are a significant strength of the school.’
We’re incredibly proud of the achievements of our Year 11 and 13 students, and if you are inspired by their success, why not explore the opportunities that ArtsEd has to offer? Join us for one of our upcoming open evenings to discover how our unique blend of academic excellence and world-class performing arts training can help you reach your full potential. Sign up today and take the first step towards your future at ArtsEd!
Many congratulations to all our Year 13 students who have achieved an excellent set of results in this year’s A Levels and BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma qualifications.
At A Level, our A* – B rate up by 8% to 71%; 91% of our BTEC students achieved D*D*D* – DDD (the equivalent of A*A*A* – AAA at A level). These are outstanding results, and among our students celebrating today were Amelie who achieved 3 A*s in her A levels, and Sienna and Josie who both achieved D*D*D* in the BTEC and an A* in their additional A level.
Headteacher, Peter Middleton, is delighted with these results:
‘I am absolutely thrilled for all our students and staff, who have worked so hard over these last two years. This is wonderful recognition of their endeavours. There are exceptional results, but it is equally important to highlight and congratulate those students who worked hard to achieve their grades across the full spectrum of results – a hard-won B grade, when predicted a C, is an equally significant achievement. All our students, who applied, achieved a place at their university of first choice, conservatoire, or institution of further training. This is a multi-talented year group, and many are now going on to leading institutions both in the UK and abroad, or into the industry. Congratulations to them all – we wish them every success in their future careers.’
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results,
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
Sixth Form Results
The Director of Sixth Form, Mark Ferrington is very proud of their achievements:
‘Congratulations to all our students for their remarkable achievements, and thank you to their families for their ongoing support. Our Sixth Form has once again demonstrated the exceptional dedication and hard work that has led to impressive outcomes across all areas of the ArtsEd Curriculum. The A Level and BTEC results reflect not only the academic prowess of our students, but also showcase their practical knowledge and skills. The resilience they have shown throughout their studies has been amazing and we look forward to seeing them thrive in their future endeavours.’
The Head of BTEC, Lizzie Bellamy, congratulated the BTEC students:
‘They should all be proud of what they have achieved, individually and collectively, and the creatives they have grown into. I hope they can all look back on their journeys at ArtsEd with pride, knowing that they can overcome challenges with resilience and confidence. They are wonderfully motivated, open, and keen to share their creative voice. We look forward to hearing of their future successes.’
At the heart of supporting these successes is the ‘ArtsEd Curriculum’ – where vocational training of the highest quality is rooted and integrated within the academic programme. This was recognised by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in the most recent inspection, when they awarded the School the highest accolade – an area of significant strength:
‘The standards that pupils achieve in performing arts, in line with the school’s expressed aims, are a significant strength of the school.’
Independent Schools Inspectorate Inspection Report 2024
We’re incredibly proud of the achievements of our Year 13 students, and if you’re inspired by their success, why not explore the opportunities that ArtsEd has to offer? Join us for one of our upcoming open evenings to discover how our unique blend of academic excellence and world-class performing arts training can help you reach your full potential. Sign up today and take the first step towards your future at ArtsEd!
ArtsEd is proud to announce the remarkable achievements of three of our talented students/graduates who have taken to the stage in the West End musical “Your Lie in April” at The Harold Pinter Theatre. The show, which had its press night on Friday, 5th July, features Ria Tanaka (Day School, Sixth Form and BA Hons Musical Theatre), Imogen Law Hing Choy (Sixth Form), and Mia Kobayashi (BA Hons Musical Theatre), all of whom have shown exceptional dedication and talent in their performances.
“We are incredibly proud of Mia, Ria, and Imogen for securing their roles in ‘Your Lie in April.’ Their achievements highlight the dedication and talent nurtured through our courses. Watching our graduates succeed on such a prestigious stage reaffirms the excellence of our training at ArtsEd and the commitment of our students.”
Jonathan O’Boyle, Director of the School of Musical Theatre
Our Stars
Mia Kobayashi, a BA (Hons) Musical Theatre graduate from the class of 2024, has landed the pivotal role of Kaori Miyazono. Mia’s transition from ArtsEd to the West End was nothing short of meteoric. She shared her incredible journey on ITV News, stating, “I finished my last lesson at ArtsEd on the Friday, and then I started rehearsals the next Monday.” Mia’s dedication and swift rise to prominence serve as an inspiration to all aspiring performers. You can watch the ITV News extract below
Credit: ITV News London: Tuesday 9th July
Ria Tanaka, a BA (Hons) Musical Theatre graduate from the class of 2022, who previously attended our Day School & Sixth Form, brings her multifaceted talent to the ensemble. Ria’s consistent hard work and perseverance have paved the way for her success in one of London’s most prestigious theatres.
Ria Tanaka (far left) and Imogen Law Hing Choy (2nd from left) in “Your Lie in April”
Photographer: Craig Sugden
Imogen Law Hing Choy, who graduated from our Sixth Form BTEC Musical Theatre course in 2024, graces the stage as part of the ensemble. Her classmates were excited to be invited to attend an exclusive preview of the show, capturing heartfelt moments and proud celebrations as Imogen left the stage door. This video highlights the support and camaraderie within the ArtsEd community.
The DSSF are all incredibly proud of alumni Imogen and Ria and their performances in Your Lie In April. They are both exceptional talents and demonstrated incredible dedication to their craft during their training with us. We look forward to seeing where their journey takes them next.
Giovanna Ryan, Head of Musical Theatre, Day School & Sixth Form
Imogen Law Hing Choy leaving the stage door at a preview of "Your Lie in April", greeted by fellow BTEC Musical Theatre student peers
Imogen Law Hing Choy
About “Your Lie in April”
“Your Lie in April” is a groundbreaking musical that marks a significant milestone in theatre history as the first all-Eastern Asian musical developed from an original Japanese manga. The story, which has captivated audiences worldwide, follows the journey of a young piano prodigy who, after losing his ability to hear the sound of the piano following his mother’s death, finds new inspiration and love through a spirited violinist. This poignant and beautifully composed musical has seamlessly transitioned from its manga roots to the West End stage, offering a unique and culturally rich experience that resonates with diverse audiences. The show’s successful press night is a testament to the hard work and talent of the cast and crew, including our very own ArtsEd alumni.
Mia Kobayashi
Imogen Law Hing Choy
Photographer: Craig Sugden
A Testament to ArtsEd’s Training at All Levels
The success of Mia, Ria, and Imogen is a testament to the high-quality education and training provided at ArtsEd. We are immensely proud of their achievements and the bright futures that lie ahead for them. Their stories reflect their own hardwork and dedication combined with the world class training that our school provides students through our comprehensive Day School, Sixth Form, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
Find Out More About Where Imogen and Ria’s Journey Began
Our Day School & Sixth Form open evenings are now open for bookings. Experience life at ArtsEd, tour our West London home, and get all of your questions answered by our esteemed faculty.
Last night drama and acting students from around the UK gathered for the annual Spotlight Prize award. ArtsEd is delighted to announce that Senam Akpokavi, a graduate of our BA Hons in Acting class of 2024, won the prestigious 2024 Spotlight Prize for Best Actor in Screen.
This remarkable achievement highlights Senam’s exceptional talent and dedication. This was a highly contested award with graduates from over 70 universities and drama schools competing for the prize.
Spotlight Prize 2024 Winners
Winners of The Spotlight Prize 2024, Alyssa Thabisile Sibanda (left) of Bristol Old Vic for Best Actor in Stage and Senam Akpokavi (right) for Best Actor in Screen.
Photo credit: Spotlight
Spotlight Prize 2024 Finalists
Spotlight Prize Finalists 2024, 22 graduates from drama schools and universities from around the UK
Photo credit: Spotlight
The Spotlight Prize, held annually since the 1950s, is one of the most prestigious awards for emerging actors in the UK. The competition provides a platform for graduating students to showcase their skills before an audience of industry professionals, including casting directors, agents, and renowned actors. Winners receive a £2000 prize and the opportunity to join a distinguished list of past recipients who have made significant strides in the industry.
Senam’s victory follows in the footsteps of notable Spotlight Prize alumni such as Jodie Whittaker, known for her role in “Doctor Who”; Ben Whishaw, acclaimed for “Skyfall” and “Paddington”; and Dame Judi Dench, an iconic figure in film and theatre. This year’s judges for the Screen category included top casting directors like Nicky Bligh, Olivia Brittain, and Denise Chamian, who praised the high calibre of performances from all finalists.
“We are extremely proud of Senam Akpokavi winning the Spotlight Screen Prize. His performances on screen and stage were outstanding last night. He has been a wonderful student to teach, and we wish him all the very best for the future”
Kim Vithana, Director of the School of Acting
Senam Akpokavi (left) and the School of Acting Director, Kim Vithana (right) at the Spotlight Prize 2024. Photo credit: Kim Vithana
Throughout his final year at ArtsEd, Senam showcased his versatility and range in various productions and screen performances, impressing audiences with each of his performances. His dedication and hard work culminated in a stellar screen performance that earned him this distinguished accolade. Senam’s credits for his final year performances include:
Frankie in So Here We Are (stage) by Luke Norris, Directed by Joshua Parr and performed on the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Theatre from 3-7 October 2023
Khalil in Survival of the Thickest (screen), Directed by Marnie Baxter and shocased at The Chiswick Cinema on 8 February 2024
Mr Voysey in The Voysey Inheritance (stage) by Harley Granville-Barket, Directed by Lucy Jane Atkinson and performed on the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Theatre from 14-18 May 2024
Pete in Sock of Terror (screen) by April Kelley, Directed by Tom Colley and showcased at The Chiswick Cinema on 19 June 2024
You can watch Senam’s showreel Survival of the Thickest here and view productions shots of Senam’s performances below.
So Here We Are
Senam Akpokavi (left) and Brock Warren (right) in So Here We Are. Photographer: Robin Savage
So Here We Are
Senam Akpokavi (left) and Lois Churcher (right) in So Here We Are. Photographer: Robin Savage
Survival of the Thickest
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd showreel Survival of the Thickest
Survival of the Thickest
Senam Akpokavi in ArtsEd showreel Survival of the Thickest
The Voysey Inheritance
Senam Akpokavi as Mr Voysey in The Voysey Inheritance. Photographer: Robin Savage
The Voysey Inheritance
Olivia Rembges as Mrs Voysey (left) and Senam Akpokavi as Mr Voysey (right) in The Voysey Inheritance. Photographer: Robin Savage
Sock of Terror
Senam Akpokavi as Pete in ArtsEd Original Film Sock of Terror
Sock of Terror
Jordan Daley (left) as Sasha and Senam Akpokavi (right) as Pete in ArtsEd Original Film Sock of Terror
The Spotlight Prize has a history of propelling its winners to successful careers in the arts. Previous winners have starred in major TV shows and films, performed on renowned stages such as The Globe and the National Theatre, and joined prestigious companies like the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company.
Senam’s achievement is a testament to the quality of training and support provided by ArtsEd’s BA Acting programme and his dedication and hardwork. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to him and eagerly anticipate his future successes in the performing arts industry.
Find Out More About Our School of Acting
Discover the wide range of acting programmes offered at ArtsEd’s School of Acting. Whether you’re looking to start your journey with our Part-Time Foundation in Acting, delve deeper with the Certificate in Higher Education (Foundation) in Acting, pursue a comprehensive education with the BA (Hons) in Acting, or advance your skills with the MA in Acting, we have the perfect course to shape your future career on stage and screen.
Covering Note to Public Statement by the Chair of the Trustees
A number of allegations were raised last year about bullying and favouritism at ArtsEd. Given the nature of the allegations and the number of complaints, as well as the public attention, the Board decided that an independent investigation was necessary. In order to ensure a fair, thorough and impartial investigation, the Board appointed an experienced barrister: Ms Ghazaleh Rezaie of 12 Kings Bench Walk Chambers.
The purpose of the investigation was to enable the Board to understand the basis of the allegations and the nature and extent of any alleged misconduct at ArtsEd. The Terms of Reference for Ms Rezaie’s investigation were published on the ArtsEd website. Ms Rezaie completed her report and sent it to the Board on the evening of 28th June 2024.
The Board of Trustees would like to thank all of the participants who came forward to give evidence to Ms Rezaie. We acknowledge that this has been a challenging, and at times an emotional, process for those involved. As can be seen in the Public Statement, the Principal was not able to participate fully in the investigation for health reasons. The Board extended the investigation on two occasions but then asked Ms Rezaie to produce a report by 28 June 2024 on the basis of her conclusions to that date.
As anticipated in the Terms of Reference, the full report contains confidential information about individuals who were interviewed. Therefore, the full report will not be published. However, the Terms of Reference requested that Ms Rezaie draft a Public Statement – being a summary of the conclusions from her Report capable of being published without contravening data protection law. That Public Statement has now been published on the ArtsEd website.
One of Ms Rezaie’s main findings was that the professional relationship between the Principal and current employees has been damaged beyond repair. The Principal has considered this finding and decided to step down from her role as Principal and as a Trustee in the interests of her health.
The Board is still considering Ms Rezaie’s final full report. The Public Statement makes it clear that not all allegations have been substantiated but a number of allegations were, in Ms Rezaie’s opinion, suitable for referral to a disciplinary process for further examination. We take these allegations very seriously. The Board is assessing the lessons which must be learned and changes which must be made. The latter will be carried out in consultation with the senior leadership at ArtsEd, which will include input into the next steps towards the recruitment of a new Principal.
At ArtsEd we are committed to a cultureof inclusivity and transparency. The Board of Trustees will ensure that robust procedures and processes that create a safe environment for all of ArtsEd’s students and staff are embedded throughout the whole institution.
