29.08.2018
For the second year running, The Stage Debut Awards celebrate emerging UK talent, showcasing cast and creatives who have made their stage debut over the last twelve months. This year, the categories include: Best Actress in a Play, Best Actor in a Play, Best Actress in a Musical, Best Actor in a Musical, Best Director, Best Designer, and the Joe Allen Best West End Debut Award.
Last September, Miriam-Teak Lee, 2017 Musical Theatre graduate, took home the award for 'Best Actress in a Musical' for her outstanding performance in On the Town at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. In her acceptance speech Miriam-Teak shared her mother’s advice: ‘what you put in, is what you get out’, and that’s certainly the case with our graduate nominees this year.
We are delighted to announce that three of our 2018 Musical Theatre graduates have been nominated for The Stage Debut Awards 2018. Toby Miles and Amara Okereke for their performances as Marius and Cosette in Les Misérables, and Simon Oskarasson for his Ariel in Return to the Forbidden Planet at the Gatehouse Theatre. Thrilled with his nomination, Simon Oskarsson says:
“Playing Ariel in Return to the Forbidden Planet was exciting, challenging and a lot of fun. Working with such lovely cast, creatives and producers was an amazing first experience in the industry for me, which I’m very thankful for. I feel very honoured, grateful and absolutely over the moon to receive this nomination.”
Shocked and delighted, Toby Miles says:
“Playing such an iconic role in the longest-running musical continues to blow my mind. I am truly honoured to have been nominated for Best Actor in a Musical at The Stage Debut Awards – it was certainly a shock!”
And Amara commented:
“I feel so honoured and very lucky to have been nominated for a stage debut award. I am of course so grateful for my training at ArtsEd, without which I wouldn't be in the situation I am in. I am loving every minute of being in Les Misérables so this nomination is really the cherry on top of a truly wonderful experience.”
Principal and Director of Musical Theatre, Chris Hocking says:
“The Stage Debut Awards are such an exciting way of recognising young talent fresh out of drama school. I am so delighted that 2018 graduates, Amara, Toby and Simon have been nominated for their outstanding contributions. We wish all the nominees a wonderful evening celebrating their debuts.”
The winners will be announced on Sunday 23 September. Find the full list of nominees here.
Looking to support new talent? Then why not become an ArtsEd Friend? By becoming a Friend of ArtsEd, you will ensure that talent and passion will win out over financial hardship. Your support will directly enable our extraordinary gifted young students to fulfil their true potential as artists and performers. Find out more and sign up today!