27.10.2020
Sunday 25 October was a night dedicated to celebrating the theatre industry both at The Black British Theatre Awards (Sky Arts) and The Olivier Awards (ITV). ArtsEd had several alumni nominated and is thrilled that two came away with winner’s trophies on the night! ArtsEd proudly sponsor the BBTA’s Mentorship Programme, an emerging scheme focussed on introducing young, black people to the theatre industry where they may not otherwise have access.
ArtsEd Musical Theatre alumna, Miriam-Teak Lee was awarded Best Actress in a Musical at both The Black British Theatre Awards and The Olivier Awards for her performance in Max Martin’s new musical, &Juliet. Miriam’s award sees her triple-crowned in 2020 as she won the WhatsOnStage award for Best Actress in a Musical in the spring.
ArtsEd Acting graduate, Rachel Nwokoro was awarded the Disability Champion Award at the Black British Theatre Awards – only one month after her win at The Stage Debut Awards for Best Performer in a Play for her performance in Little Baby Jesus at Orange Tree Theatre.
Delighted by her win at the Olivier Awards, Miriam-Teak said:
“This is absolutely incredible! My mum always said to me that I could do anything if I put my mind to it […] so I hope I can inspire children who want to get into this business, knowing they can do anything.”
Rachel gave an emotional speech at the Black British Theatre Awards, declaring repeatedly: “They can’t stop us!”, which received a standing ovation. She said:
“Thank you for all this divine love, visibility and recognition. It’s honestly such a welcome gift at a time of such fear and false scarcity… Bring on the ABUNDANCE my loves.”
ArtsEd graduates Jac Yarrow (Musical Theatre) and Zizi Strallen (Day School) were also nominated at The Oliviers for Best Actor and Actress in a Musical in a Musical respectively for their leading roles in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Mary Poppins.
Renowned lyricist, Don Black, an ArtsEd Associate Artist, received the Special Award for his outstanding contribution to theatre and was interviewed for the television broadcast with ArtsEd President, Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Congratulations to all nominees and winners!
PHOTOS: Miriam-Teak Lee (pictured left) and Rachel Nwokoro. Photo credit: The Black British Theatre Awards.