30.11.2020
We are delighted to announce Tavio Wright as the first recipient of the Graham Martin Bursary at ArtsEd.
The bursary was set up to mark the passing of ArtsEd alumnus Graham Martin and to celebrate his achievements as an outstanding, and much loved, actor. Graham’s friends and family have already raised over £4,000 for the fund and have described the bursary as a particularly fitting way to remember Graham, who was always ready and quick to help others.
Tavio developed his love for musical theatre at The Brit School, joining ArtsEd in 2018. He is now in the final year of the Musical Theatre BA course, working towards performances of Ragtime and Cats in the new year. Alongside the financial support for young performers of exceptional talent, recipients of the Graham Martin Bursary will also receive valuable mentorship from established theatre professionals, building on the generous spirit with which Graham shared his own expertise and experience for so many years.
Tavio recently met up on zoom with Graham’s friends and agents; Justin and Sarah Savage, Tim Churchill, his long-term dressing room pal, David Simpson, who studied alongside Graham at ArtsEd and Bob Tomson, who worked closely with Graham whilst directing Blood Brothers. Discussing his hopes and ambitions for the future, Tavio received valuable advice about stepping into the professional world and encouragement about the industry post-Covid.
Tavio said: “Meeting Justin, Sarah, Tim, David and Bob was amazing. Hearing their words of encouragement and support, as well as their practical advice, gave me such a boost and a bit more confidence as I step closer to entering the industry next year. I feel very lucky to receive the first Graham Martin Bursary.”
Justin and Sarah Savage said: “This fund has been made possible by generous donations from so many of Graham’s friends, family and fans. We are delighted and honoured to be able to continue Graham’s legacy at ArtsEd, and we wish Tavio every success as the first student to benefit from Graham’s fund.”
If you would like to remember Graham and make a donation to the fund, you can click here.