News and press
For press enquiries, please contact:
Thomas Brewer, Head of Communications and Marketing
thomasbrewer@rada.ac.uk
RADA Partners with British Museum on 2026 Annual Ball
As part of the British Museum Annual Ball 2026, curated by renowned artist and designer Es Devlin, RADA presented a series of live, site-specific performances inspired by the evening's themes of red, weaving, connection and the stories that bind people across time and cultures.
RADA graduates featured throughout the BFI London Film Festival programme
We are delighted to celebrate the many RADA graduates whose work features across the film programme at this year's BFI London Film Festival.
RADA graduates win at Emmy Awards 2026
Imelda Staunton DBE receives RADA Honorary Fellowship
RADA is delighted to announce the appointment of Imelda Staunton as an Honorary Fellow, recognising her outstanding contribution to the theatre industry and the art of acting.
The role celebrates individuals who have made a significant impact and contribution to RADA, to professional training, or to the wider industry.
Helen Slater appointed Principal and CEO of RADA
The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art has confirmed the appointment of Helen Slater as its ninth Principal & CEO, following an extensive search process. She takes up her new role with immediate effect.
The Stage Debut Awards shortlist 2026
RADA graduate Tommaso Giacomin (MA Theatre Lab, 2022) has been nominated for Best Director at The Stage Debut Awards, joining a shortlist that also includes fellow RADA graduate Ralph Fiennes, recognised for his directorial debut of As You Like It at Theatre Royal Bath.
RADA and the University of Warwick launch research into leadership performance
RADA and the University of Warwick have launched a fully funded PhD studentship to investigate how actor training shapes leadership, organisational culture and professional impact in mainstream industry.
The collaborative research project, Acting on Organisations: How dramatic pedagogies shape work, culture and performance, will start in autumn 2026.
RADA achieves outstanding teaching and academic support scores in National Student Survey 2026
RADA is delighted to share its results from the latest National Student Survey (NSS), which highlight the Academy's continued strength in teaching, academic support and student outcomes.
RADA Secures Arts Council England funding for Shakespeare for Young Audiences outreach programme
RADA has successfully secured National Lottery Project Grant funding from Arts Council England for Shakespeare for Young Audiences, one of our key outreach programmes.
The programme will work with nine state schools in areas of high deprivation, reaching over 1000 students aged 13–16. Through a combination of live performances, workshops and visits to RADA.
Cynthia Erivo appointed Artist in Residence: Tutor in Vocal Practice at RADA
The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) is delighted to announce that Emmy®, Tony®, 2x Grammy® Award-winning and 3x Academy Award nominated Cynthia Erivo has been appointed Artist in Residence: Tutor in Vocal Practice.
Cynthia’s appointment introduces a contemporary approach to vocal technique within RADA’s dramatic training, bringing new understanding of how voice operates in current performance contexts.
RADA partners with NIDA and Australia House
On Friday 10 April, we were delighted to partner with National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) and the Australian High Commission, United Kingdom for an evening celebrating collaboration and global storytelling.
The evening featured a panel with NIDA graduates Cate Blanchett, Kip Williams and Suzie Miller in a discussion moderated by RADA graduate and President David Harewood.
2026 TV BAFTA awards nominations for RADA Graduates
Congratulations to graduates who have been nominated in the 2026 BAFTA Television Awards announced earlier today 24 March.
RADA graduates nominated at the 2026 Olivier Awards
RADA is delighted to celebrate our graduates who have been nominated at the 2026 Olivier Awards, announced on 5 March.
Jessie Buckley wins Best Actress Oscar for Hamnet
Our heartfelt congratulations go to RADA Graduate Jessie Buckley for her history-making Oscar win on Sunday 15 March 2026.
Jessie Buckley and Wunmi Mosaku win BAFTAs
Huge congratulations to RADA Graduates Jessie Buckley and Wunmi Mosaku, for their wins at the BAFTAs on Sunday 22 February 2026.
IFTA success for RADA Graduates
Congratulations to RADA Graduates Jessie Buckley , Ciarán Hinds and Chris Walley for their wins at the Irish Film and Televison Academy (IFTA) Awards on Friday 20 February 2026.
RADA partners with Talawa Theatre Company on Mona Hammond Annual Lecture Series
RADA is delighted to announce a new partnership with Talawa Theatre Company for the Mona Hammond Annual Lecture Series, launching in 2026.
Jessie Buckley and Wunmi Mosaku nominated for Oscars
Congratulations to BA (Hons) Acting Graduates Jessie Buckley and Wunmi Mosaku who have been nominated for Academy Awards in the Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress categories.
Niamh Dowling steps down as Principal of RADA
Niamh Dowling has retired as Principal of Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), to focus on her recovery following a period of illness.
Niamh has made a significant contribution to the academic and cultural life of RADA during her tenure.
Jessie Buckley wins Best Actress at Golden Globes
Congratulations to BA (Hons) Acting Graduate Jessie Buckley, who won the Golden Globe award for Best Female Actor in a Film – Drama for her performance as Agnes in in Chloé Zhao’s adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet.
Golden Globes 2026 nominations for RADA graduates
Nominations for the 2026 Golden Globe Awards were announced this week, with nominations in Film categories for RADA Vice-President Cynthia Erivo, Jessie Buckley, and Short Courses alumna Tessa Thompson, and in Television categories for Matthew Rhys and Aimee Lou Wood.
Originate Shortlisted for the Music & Drama Education Awards 2026
RADA is pleased to announce that Originate our joint project with Guildhall School of Music & Drama, Theatre Peckham, Young and Talented has been shortlisted for the Music & Drama Education Awards 2026, a celebration of excellence across the performing arts and education sectors.
RADA partners with Clean Break Young Company
RADA is delighted to partner with Clean Break on the launch of its new Young Company, a pioneering training programme for young women and non-binary people aged 18–25 who have lived experience of the criminal justice system, or who are at risk of entering it.
RADA Graduate Miriam Dheva-Aksorn Named Linbury Prize Recipient
Recent RADA Graduate Miriam Dheva-Aksorn who graduated in 2025, has been named one of twelve recipients of the Linbury Prize for Stage Design 2025.
RADA Short film 2025 successes
Every year, RADA produces internationally recognised short films from original commissioned scripts, collaborating with a diverse range of award-winning writers, professional directors and crew.
Recent films have landed a series of accolades and been included in festivals around the world.
Find out more about recent successes.
Michael Sheen joins Mike Leigh and Lindy Hemming as RADA Honorary Fellow
RADA is delighted to welcome Michael Sheen, Mike Leigh and Lindy Hemming as new Honorary Fellows, recognising their extraordinary contributions to theatre, film and the creative industries.
RADA National Student Survey successes
We are delighted to share RADA’s results from the 2025 National Student Survey (NSS).
The NSS, conducted annually by the Office for Students, gathers anonymous feedback from final-year students across the UK and is a key measure of student satisfaction and educational quality in higher education.
RADA Named Top UK Drama School in The Hollywood Reporter’s 2025 Global Rankings
We are delighted to announce that RADA has been named the top UK drama school in The Hollywood Reporter’s 2025 list of the Top 25 Drama Schools in the World, maintaining our position at number 5 overall for the second consecutive year.
Rufus Norris receives knighthood in King's Birthday honours
RADA graduate and former Director of the National Theatre, Rufus Norris has been knighted in this year's Royal birthday honours list.
RADA Vice-President Cynthia Erivo to star in Dracula on the West End
We are delighted that RADA graduate and Vice-President Cynthia Erivo will star in Dracula at the Noel Coward Theatre in February 2026. Cynthia will play Dracula as well as 22 supporting characters in this solo performance of Bram Stoker’s gothic novel, adapted and directed by Kip Williams.
Marisa Abela wins Best Actress at BAFTA TV Awards
Congratulations to BA (Hons) Acting Graduate Marisa Abela, who won the award for Best Leading Actress for her performance in hit BBC drama Industry at the BAFTA TV awards on 11 May at Royal Festival Hall.
RADA President David Harewood to play Othello on the West End
We are delighted that RADA graduate and President David Harewood will reprise the role of Othello.
Imelda Staunton and Rufus Norris Win Olivier Awards
Congratulations to RADA Graduates Imelda Staunton and Rufus Norris, who won Olivier Awards on 6 April 2025 at the Royal Albert Hall. Imelda Staunton won Best Actress in a Musical for her critically acclaimed performance as Dolly Hello, Dolly! at the London Palladium. Rufus Norris won the Society of London Theatre Special Award for his services to the theatre industry after ten years as Artistic Director of the National Theatre.
Olivier nominations for RADA graduates
Nominations for the 2025 Olivier Awards were announced this week, 4 March 2025. Indira Varma and Rosie Sheehy have both been nominated for the Best Actress Award for their performances in Oedipus and Machinal at the Old Vic. Imelda Staunton has been nominated for Best Actress in a Musical for Hello, Dolly! at the London Palladium. Ben Whishaw has been nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Bluets at the Royal Court.
IFTA success for RADA Graduates
Congratulations to RADA Graduates Tom Vaughan-Lawlor and Ralph Fiennes for their wins at the Irish Film and Televison Academy (IFTA) Awards.
David Jonsson wins the BAFTA EE Rising Star Award
Congratulations to BA (Hons) Acting Graduate, David Jonsson, who has been named EE Rising Star by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA).
Imelda Staunton wins at the WhatsOnStage Awards
Congratulations to RADA Graduate Imelda Staunton, who was awarded Best Performer in a Musical at the WhatsOnStage Awards for her critically acclaimed performance as Dolly in Dominic Cooke’s revival of Hello Dolly! .
RADA launches new MA in Playwriting
RADA is delighted to announce the launch of our new MA Playwriting programme, and to open applications for our MA Theatre Lab, for entry in September 2025.
Skylar Turnbull Hurd wins the Michael Northen Award from the APLD
Congratulations to graduate and Lighting Designer Skylar Turnbull Hurd who has won the 2024-25 Michael Northen Award from the ALPD (Association of Lighting Production and Design).
Award Nominations for RADA graduates
Nominations for the 97th Academy Awards were announced this week, 23 January 2025. RADA graduate and Vice-President Cynthia Erivo received a nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance as Elphaba in the adaptation of the musical Wicked. Fellow graduate Ralph Fiennes was nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his role in the papal thriller Conclave.
See our round up of recent graduate nominations, including Academy Awards, BAFTA and IFTA.
Highlights from 2024
As we launch into 2025, we look back over 2024 and some of the highlights from the year. In our 120th year anniversary, among other achievements, we launched a series of new MA degrees in technical theatre, we won an award for our widening participation project and we have celebrated partnerships that highlight legacy and innovation.
Congratulations to Anne Reid who is recognised in the King's New Year Honours list 2025
Congratulations to graduate Anne Reid who was recognised in the King's New Year Honours list 2025 with a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
Congratulations to Darcy Dixon winner of the Luke Westlake bursary 2024
We are delighted that our second year BA (Hons) in Acting student Darcy Dixon has won this year’s Luke Westlake Scholarship, which supports working-class creatives in their final years of training.
RADA Launches New MA Courses in Technical Theatre
RADA is excited to announce the launch of three new Master’s degree courses in Stage Management, Theatre Costume, and Performance Lighting Design.
"These new MA courses reflect RADA’s commitment to collaboration and innovation in theatre-making. We are excited to equip students with the skills to shape the future of live performance.” Niamh Dowling, RADA Principal.
RADA Principal Niamh Dowling Awarded Freedom of the City of London
We are thrilled to announce that our Principal, Niamh Dowling, has been awarded the prestigious Freedom of the City of London.
RADA's National Student Survey Success
We are delighted to share RADA's results from the latest National Student Survey (NSS) with significant achievements in student satisfaction and teaching.
Stage Management Journeys
The second Annual Stage Management Journeys seminar, in honour of RADA graduate and National Theatre London stage manager Trish Montemuro, was held on 9 July 2024 in RADA Studios.
MA Lab Work at The Coronet Theatre
We are delighted that Lab Works returns to The Coronet Theatre. Now in its second year our MA Theatre Lab's exciting collaboration with The Coronet Theatre, presents Lab Works between 17-20 July 2024.
Originate Actor Training shortlisted for Widening Access Award
We are delighted that Originate Actor training has been shortlisted for the Widening Access Partnership Award at this year’s NEON Awards.
Offered in collaboration with Theatre Peckham, Guildhall School of Music and Drama and RADA, Originate prepares young actors for Drama School and the industry via a free intensive nine-month programme.
Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit RADA
On Wednesday 29 May we welcomed our new Patron of RADA His Majesty King Charles III and Queen Camilla to RADA. This follows the announcement earlier in the year that His Majesty would take up the Royal Patronage of the academy.
Royal Patron His Majesty King Charles III
We are honoured to announce that this week Buckingham Palace has confirmed His Majesty King Charles III will take up the Royal Patronage of RADA.
The Winslow Boy with support from The Terence Rattigan Society at RADA
Period drama The Winslow Boy is produced with support from Dr Holly Hill of The Terence Rattigan Society in the GBS Theatre, Malet Street from 29 May - 8 June 2024.
David Harewood and Cynthia Erivo appointed new President and Vice President of RADA
We are delighted to announce the appointment of RADA graduates David Harewood and Cynthia Erivo, as our new President and Vice President. They succeed Kenneth Branagh, who has been an incredibly generous and supportive President over the last nine years.
Graduate winners at the WhatsOnStage Awards 2024
Congratulations to the RADA graduates who were nominated at the WhatsOnStage Awards 2024.
Highlights from 2023
Before 2023 draws to a close, we wanted to share some highlights from another busy year at RADA.
RADA Short films - round up of recent success
Every year, RADA produces internationally recognised short films from original commissioned scripts, collaborating with a diverse range of award-winning writers, professional directors and crew.
Recent films have landed a series of accolades and been included in festivals around the world.
RADA receives gold rating for Teaching Excellence
We are delighted to announce that RADA has been awarded Gold, the highest award, in the Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework (TEF), recognising excellence in the quality of our teaching, learning environments and student outcomes.
RADA graduates and staff at Edinburgh Fringe 2023
We're thrilled that many RADA graduates and staff are presenting work at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Find out more about the shows listed in order of start date and book tickets.
If you are a RADA graduate or staff member and would like to see your show listed, please contact graduates@rada.ac.uk
Young Technicians: New partnership with Theatre Royal Stratford East and Backstage Niche
We are joining forces with Theatre Royal Stratford East and Backstage Niche for their Young Technicians course offering free stage management, lighting and technical training for young people currently underrepresented in the industry.
This free 12-week introductory course for 16–21-year-olds will give students the opportunity to develop practical skills in stage management, lighting and sound with industry professionals.
Kathryn Hunter and Winsome Pinnock new RADA Honorary Fellows
We are delighted to announce that Kathryn Hunter and Winsome Pinnock have been made Honorary Fellows of RADA.
The role celebrates figures who have made significant impact and contribution to RADA, to training or to the wider industry. Fellows will be invited to take an active role in the life of the Academy including, where possible, meeting and working with current students.
In 2018, RADA revived the tradition of Honorary Fellows and has since awarded Fellowships to Thelma Holt CBE, Cicely Berry CBE, Glenda Jackson CBE, Mona Hammond OBE, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Stephen Sondheim and Francine Watson Coleman.
Lab Works announced at The Coronet Theatre
We are excited to announce our MA Theatre Lab's new collaboration with The Coronet Theatre, presenting Lab Works.
The project combines workshops and scratch nights, and culminates in a series of original 'theatre-shorts', enabling artistic development, public visibility and new networking opportunities for emerging artists at RADA.
Cast and creative team announced for Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company’s King Lear
The full cast and creative team has been announced for the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company’s production of King Lear. We are delighted that RADA students, graduates and staff are involved in the production opening at Wyndham’s Theatre from 21 October - 9 December 2023.
Read more
Glenda Jackson CBE, 1936 - 2023
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Glenda Jackson CBE, award-winning actress, Labour MP and RADA graduate.
As an actress, Jackson won two Oscars, three Emmys, two BAFTAs and a Tony in a career spanning six decades.
The BAFTA TV Awards 2023 nominations
This week, the nominations were announced for the BAFTA TV Awards 2023. Congratulations to everyone nominated, particularly to the numerous RADA graduates who have been recognised. The ceremony will be broadcast on Sunday 14 May.
Obituary: Nigel Leach
It is with great sadness we report that RADA graduate Nigel Leach has passed away.
Nigel Howard Leach was born in 1956 in London and originally trained as a theatre designer at the Central School of Art and Design before fulfilling his lifelong ambition by being accepted into RADA, where he went on to win the prestigious William Poel Memorial Prize. After graduating in 1980, he worked all over the country in productions ranging from Shakespeare to pantomime.
Learn more
Olivier Award nominations for 2023
We are delighted that multiple RADA graduates received nominations for the Olivier Awards 2023. The awards ceremony was held at the Royal Albert Hall on 2 April.
RADA welcomes new trustees
We are pleased to share the appointment of seven new trustees and one appointment to our Development Board, bringing expertise in the areas of higher education, social policy, equality, diversity and inclusion and finance, to bring new skills and perspectives to RADA’s Council and support RADA’s strategic development.
RADA graduate nominated at the 2023 Academy Awards
On 24 January, the nominations for the 95th Academy Awards were announced. The awards ceremony will be held at Dolby Theatre, Ovation Hollywood on Sunday 12 March. Find out which RADA graduate was nominated for Best Actress.
The 80th Golden Globe Awards Nominees
The 80th annual Golden Globe Awards were announced this week in a ceremony held on 10 January in LA. This year saw a number of RADA graduates nominated for their artistry.
David Harewood accepts OBE
After being nominated in the New Year Honours List 2023, RADA graduate David Harewood accepted an OBE for his services to drama and charity, having previously received an MBE in 2012.
RADA awarded world-leading specialist funding
We are delighted that the Office for Students has announced that RADA has been awarded world-leading status and funding for our teaching and education activities.
The British Independent Film Awards 2022 Nominees
Congratulations to everyone nominated in the British Independent Film Awards 2022. This year marks the 25th year of the BIFA’s, which see 36 British feature films recognised. Winners will be announced at the BIFA ceremony on Sunday 4 December 2022.
The 2022 Black British Theatre Awards
The Black British Theatre Awards launched in 2019 to celebrate the influence of Black performers and creatives on the UK's artistic legacy. The BBTAs highlight the abundance of Black talent and seek to change the lack of recognition by amplifying the positivity of talent and creativity in UK theatre through their work.
Congratulations to Nnabiko Ejimofor on his theatre debut in the production of For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy, which won Best Production Play at the 2022 Black British Theatre Awards.
National Theatre Casting Updates
The National Theatre have announced their upcoming programming, which includes seven RADA Theatre Production and Acting graduates across eight productions performed in the UK and internationally.
Emmy Awards 2022
The 74th annual Emmy Awards were announced this week in a live ceremony held on September 12 in Los Angeles with RADA Acting graduate Matthew MacFadyen winning Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series for his role in the HBO series Succession.
Her Majesty The Queen, 1926 - 2022
We are deeply saddened to hear the news that Her Majesty The Queen, patron of RADA, has passed away.
Mona Hammond 1931 - 2022
Mona Hammond OBE, RADA Honorary Fellow and graduate has died aged 91.
MA Theatre Lab residency and performance at the Coronet Theatre
In its tenth anniversary year the MA Theatre Lab is delighted to begin celebrations with a three-day residency at the Coronet Theatre in Notting Hill.
RADA celebrates Her Majesty The Queen's Platinum Jubilee
As we congratulate Her Majesty for the extraordinary milestone of her Platinum Jubilee RADA looks back at her relationship with our academy.
Westminster Abbey to honour Sir John Gielgud
RADA Honorary fellow Sir John Gielgud, who was regarded as one of the finest actors of the twentieth century, will receive a memorial stone at Westminster Abbey this week.
Graduates nominated at the 2022 BAFTA Television and TV Craft Awards
The BAFTA Television and TV Craft Awards nominations were announced today with a number of RADA graduates nominated for awards.
RADA graduates Awards and nominations
Its Award season for stage and screen and we are pleased to celebrate RADA graduates awarded and nominated this year at the BAFTA, Critics Circle and Olivier Awards.
Niamh Dowling announced as new Principal of RADA
RADA’s Council is pleased to announced that Niamh Dowling will become the new Principal of RADA. Niamh Dowling will take up the post in June this year.
Read more
Winter news at RADA 2022
As we head into awards season, RADA has much to celebrate in terms of awards, nominations and casting over the past few months, as well as other headline news from students, staff and graduates.
Updates and guidance on Covid-19
Please read our latest guidance regarding Covid-19 here.
Big Give Christmas Challenge 2021
A huge thank you to everyone who donated to RADA’s Big Give Christmas Challenge. Thank you to The Big Give team and our champion, The Childhood Trust and official pledgers.
Together we raised £65,000 towards our Access and Participation programme.
Photo from The Next Stage 2021
Photographer: Amaal Said
Stephen Sondheim and his legacy remembered at RADA
Renowned composer, lyricist and RADA Honorary Fellow Stephen Sondheim has died aged 91.
RADA graduate David Jonsson wins at the Black British Theatre Awards 2021
RADA graduates are recognised at the Black British Theatre Awards at this year's ceremony held at Old Finsbury Town Hall in London.
RADA short films 2021 recognised at international short film festivals
RADA is delighted to announce the 2021 short films have been recognised by a number of international film festivals with several laurels and five awards.
Congratulations to our RADA winners and nominees at the 73rd EMMY® Awards 2021
Tobias Menzies and Robert Sterne were winners at the 73rd EMMY® Awards, along with several RADA graduates who were also nominated this year.
MA Theatre Lab at the Bloomsbury Festival
We are thrilled that our relationship with the Bloomsbury Festival continues in 2021 with a programme that features performances from RADA's MA Theatre Lab.
Oliver Neville, 1929-2021
We are deeply saddened to hear former RADA Principal Oliver Neville has died at the age of 92. He was born in 1929 in Birmingham and was Principal from 1984 to 1993.
Marcus Ryder appointed new Chair of RADA Council
Marcus Ryder succeeds Sir Stephen Waley-Cohen who has held the post since 2007, at the end of June this year.
BAFTA Television Awards and Television Craft Awards 2021
Nominees were announced this week for the BAFTA Television Awards and the BAFTA Television Craft Awards 2021, we are proud to acknowledge and celebrate the actors, theatre technicians and designers who trained at RADA.
Anthony Hopkins wins best actor Oscar for The Father
Graduate Anthony Hopkins has won the Oscar for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in 'The Father' at the 93rd Academy Awards in Los Angeles.
Read more
Update on RADA's anti-racism project
We are committed to institution-wide change to create an anti-racist and inclusive culture, where everyone feels safe and is able to speak up.
BAFTA Film award winners announced
Bukky Bakray, who trained on RADA's Youth Company: Acting wins EE Rising Star Award, and graduate Anthony Hopkins wins Leading Actor award at BAFTA Film Awards.
RADA Talks: Imelda Staunton and O-T Fagbenle
We are thrilled to announce the next event in our RADA Talks series. RADA graduates Imelda Staunton and O-T Fagbenle will be in conversation broadcast on DICE on Sunday 18 April, 5pm and Wednesday 21 April, 8pm (available to watch for 24hrs).
MA Theatre Lab applications open
We are pleased to let you know that applications for our MA Theatre Lab are now open.
The MA Theatre Lab course runs from January 2022 for a year, and is a collaborative training course building on and extending students' previous experience in performance with rigorous experimentation.
Nominees announced at the BAFTA Film Awards 2021
Nominees were announced this week for the BAFTA Film Awards 2021, and we're thrilled to see nominations for actors who trained at RADA on both our full-time courses and with our Access and Participation projects.
Kenneth Branagh and Ralph Fiennes in conversation for RADA Talks
As part of the RADA Talks series, we are pleased to announce a conversation with Kenneth Branagh and Ralph Fiennes, chaired by RADA’s Head of Film, Television and Radio, Pamela Jikiemi. Join us for this streamed event online on Friday 26 February at 8pm.
Awards round-up: nominations and awards for graduates on stage and screen
As awards season gets under way, several RADA graduates have been recognised for their stage and screen work.
OnComm finalists announced
The finalists have been announced for the OnComm Awards, celebrating excellence in productions by independent, alternative and fringe theatres that are presented online. We're delighted to see lots of shows that include work from RADA graduates, as theatre-makers in many different disciplines adjust to new ways of working.
Edward Kemp to step down as Director of RADA
Edward Kemp has today announced that he will step down after 14 years as Director of RADA, during the 2020-2021 academic year.
RADA graduates nominated at the Critics' Choice Awards
The Critics' Choice Award nominees for television and film have been announced recently, with several RADA graduates nominated.
Short courses: endless possibilities
Join us in 2021 to explore your talent, as we launch new online short courses in acting.
Our courses offer a range of opportunities for budding actors to focus on various aspects of acting. With topics that cover a wide variety of interests and techniques, there really is something for everyone.
Find out more about our 2021 courses here.
Graduates nominated at the 2020 BIFAs
Nominations have been announced for this year's British Independent Film Awards (BIFAs), with several RADA acting graduates making the shortlists.
Awards for RADA Festival Homemakers commissions
We're thrilled that several of our RADA Festival commissions for the Homemakers digital festival have received awards and nominations, and been screened at international film festivals.
2020 South Bank Sky Arts Awards nominees
The nominees have been announced for this year's South Bank Sky Arts Awards, and it is fantastic to see nominations for work created and performed by many RADA graduates.
RADA appoints Leeds Beckett University as anti-racism consultants
Leeds Beckett University (LBU) is partnering with RADA to help develop a culture of anti-racism. The initiative will be led by Professor Vini Lander and colleagues from the Centre for Race, Education and Decoloniality (CRED), part of the Carnegie School of Education at LBU, who will act as specialist consultants.
See RADA graduates in Steve McQueen's Small Axe
The first film in Steve McQueen's Small Axe collection was broadcast on BBC One last Sunday to critical acclaim. We are proud to see several RADA graduates involved in the series in front of and behind the camera.
RADA takes part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2020
RADA’s annual campaign with match-funding platform The Big Give returns this year from Tuesday 1 to Tuesday 8 December, raising funds for our access and participation projects. All donations, of any size, made during this week will be doubled.
BAFTA Breakthrough awards for RADA actors
This year's BAFTA Breakthrough UK artists have been announced, and we're delighted to see graduate Tamara Lawrance and Youth Company member Bukky Bakray named among this year's recipients.
Olivier Awards for RADA graduates
After the ceremony was postponed earlier this year, the winners of the 2020 Olivier Awards were announced on Sunday 25 October. Congratulations to all the RADA graduates who won awards.
'Rocks' released on Netflix UK
Yesterday the critically acclaimed film Rocks was released on Netflix UK. Written by Theresa Ikoko and Claire Wilson and directed by Sarah Gavron and Anu Henriques, the film tells the story of Shola 'Rocks' Omotoso, a teenage girl who struggles to look after herself and her younger brother after being abandoned by their mother.
Graduates nominated at the Black British Theatre Awards
This week the nominees were announced for the second Black British Theatre Awards, and we are thrilled that three graduates are nominated.
Update from RADA's Anti-Racism Steering Group
An update on progress from RADA's Anti-Racism Steering Group, shared with all RADA students, staff and graduates on Friday 21 August 2020.
RADA actors and designers nominated for The Stage Debut Awards
Three RADA graduates from technical and acting courses have been nominated at this year's The Stage Debut Awards.
Short courses: endless possibilities
We are running online acting courses throughout autumn and winter 2020, kicking off with our Winter Shorts, bookable through our website.
BAFTA TV Awards for RADA graduates
Several RADA graduates have won BAFTA TV Awards across acting and craft categories.
Graduates nominated at the IFTA Film and Drama Awards
Nominations have been announced for this year's IFTA Film and Drama Awards, celebrating the best of Irish film and television. We're delighted that several RADA graduates have been nominated in the acting categories.
Graduates nominated at the 2020 BAFTA Television and TV Craft Awards
The BAFTA Television and TV Craft Awards nominations were announced recently, and a number of RADA graduates have been nominated.
Graduates nominated for the Ian Charleson Award
We are delighted that three RADA graduates have been nominated at this year's Ian Charleson Awards, celebrating the best classical performances by actors under 30. Congratulations to Ronke Adékoluẹjo, Kitty Archer and Kit Young.
Watch our acting graduates on stage from home
As theatres were forced to close their doors during the UK lockdown, there has been a boom in theatres streaming their previous shows online, with many opportunities to see RADA graduates on stage.
RADA Business launches Virtual Stage programme
RADA Business helps people at work become brilliant communicators. We build on the work of one of the world’s most respected drama schools to deliver world-class training programmes and coaching for organisations and individuals. All our profits are gifted to the academy to support the next generation of actors and technicians.
We want to help organisations adapt to the 'new normal', and by this we mean accepting and adapting to a world where communicating across virtual media such as video calls is a fundamental part of everyday working life, as things may never go back to exactly how they were.
The Virtual Stage offer covers a wide variety of online training options for individuals and organisations.
RADA graduates in the Lockdown Theatre Festival
As theatres and artists continue to find new ways to share creative work in the digital sphere, it is great to see many RADA graduates getting involved in a range of productions and performances.
One such project is the Lockdown Theatre Festival, created by acting graduate Bertie Carvel.
Royal Television Society awards for RADA graduates
The Royal Television Society (RTS) announced the winners of their Programme Awards this week - and we're thrilled to see RADA graduates Tamara Lawrance, Tanya Moodie and Phoebe Waller-Bridge on the list of winners.
Student success at the Carleton Hobbs Bursary Award
Final year RADA acting students have received awards and commendations at this year's Carleton Hobbs Bursary Award, which took place in March.
Ian Dunnett Jnr was selected as one of four overall winners, and all four members of the team received commendations.
RADA graduates nominated at 2020 Olivier Awards
The nominees have been announced for this year's Olivier Awards, with several RADA graduates in the running.
RADA graduates nominated at the 2020 Academy Awards
Following last week's BAFTA Film Award nominations, the Academy today announced the nominees for this year's Oscars, and we're thrilled to see three RADA graduates nominated across four categories. Congratulations to Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Pryce and Sir Anthony Hopkins.
BAFTA Film nominations announced
As awards season continues, the nominees for this year's BAFTA Film Awards have been announced, with more nominations for RADA graduates.
Golden Globe Awards for Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Taron Egerton
The winners of the Golden Globes took place in LA last night, and we're thrilled that Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Taron Egerton were both announced as winners.
Screen Actors Guild Awards nominees announced
Following the recent Golden Globes nominations, there has been further recognition for RADA graduates Taron Egerton, Cynthia Erivo and Phoebe Waller-Bridge as the Screen Actors Guild Awards nominees were announced.
Golden Globes nominations for RADA graduates
We're delighted that several RADA graduates have been nominated at this year's Golden Globes - with five out of the six graduates nominated for playing real-life roles.
Stephen Sondheim awarded Honorary Fellowship in New York
We were delighted to present renowned composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim with his RADA Honorary Fellowship at a special event in New York last week.
Hosted by the British Consul-General, the evening included performances by RADA graduates Jenna Augen and Jamie Bogyo.
Graduates shortlisted for BBC Audio Drama Awards
Several RADA graduates have been shortlisted for this year's BBC Audio Drama Awards, celebrating the range, originality and quality of audio dramas, including performers, writers, directors and sound designers.
Evening Standard Theatre Awards nominations
This year's Evening Standard Theatre Awards will take place on 24 November in London. This year RADA graduates Tom Hiddleston, Juliet Stevenson and Fly Davis are nominated, across performance and design categories.
BIFA nominations for RADA graduates
Jessie Buckley, Sally Hawkins and Tom Burke have all been nominated for acting awards at this year's BIFAs, as the shortlists were announced today.
Audition and interview for RADA's training across the UK
We are pleased to announce the dates for this year's acting auditions and theatre production interviews, which will take place across the UK and overseas.
New for this year are our auditions in Glasgow (acting and theatre production) and Sheffield. We will also be returning to Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Plymouth and Bristol, as well as to Dublin, New York and Los Angeles.
Graduates honoured at the Hollywood Film Awards
RADA graduates Cynthia Erivo and Taron Egerton will be honoured at the 2019 Hollywood Film Awards, taking place next month.
Emmy Awards for Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Ben Whishaw
The winners of the 2019 Primetime Emmy Awards have been announced in LA, with awards going to RADA graduates Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Ben Whishaw.
Bloomsbury Festival programme announced
The programme for this year's Bloomsbury Festival has been announced, with several recent RADA MA graduates presenting new work at the festival.
RADA at the Edinburgh Fringe
As the Edinburgh Festival Fringe kicks off for another year next week, we're once again pleased to see many RADA graduates taking their work to the festival as performers, writers, lighting designers, directors, stage managers and more.
2019 Emmy nominations announced
This year's Primetime Emmy nominations have been announced, with nominations for Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Sian Clifford, Fiona Shaw and Ben Whishaw - and particular success for Fleabag and Killing Eve.
Four new Honorary Fellows appointed at RADA
Mona Hammond OBE, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Stephen Sondheim, and Francine Watson Coleman have been made Honorary Fellows of RADA
These renowned industry figures have been appointed in recognition of their influential contribution to the industry, on and off the stage and screen.
Clinton Greyn, 1933-2019
Clinton Greyn, who trained at RADA in the 1950s, passed away recently at the age of 85.
As well as a career spanning stage and screen, he was an active member of Equity and had a passion for contemporary architecture.
RADA appoints three new honorary fellows
We are delighted to announce the appointment of three new Honorary Fellows at RADA, recognising contributions to the theatre industry in the fields of vocal coaching, producing and performance.
Leading vocal coach Cicely Berry, celebrated producer Thelma Holt and recent Tony Award winner Glenda Jackson have all accepted the position.
RADA President Kenneth Branagh directs Tom Hiddleston in Hamlet
Kenneth Branagh’s Olivier Award-winning theatre company will join forces with RADA for a co-production of Hamlet, to support the transformation of RADA’s Chenies Street site in London, further developing the Academy as a world-leader in dramatic arts training.
The production will feature RADA alumnus Tom Hiddleston in the title role and will play a strictly limited three week run at RADA’s 160-seat Jerwood Vanbrugh Theatre from 1-23 September 2017.
All funds raised will support the RADA Attenborough Campaign, which aims to raise £20million, enabling the regeneration of the Academy’s Chenies Street premises.
Michael Attenborough appointed Director Emeritus at RADA
We are delighted to announce that Michael Attenborough CBE has been appointed to the honorary post of Director Emeritus, building on his long-standing and greatly valued relationship with the Academy.
Michael Attenborough was on the RADA Council for 17 years, latterly holding the post of Vice Chairman alongside the late Alan Rickman; his continuing association with RADA also includes over a decade of work with BA Acting students.
