Author: Natasha Raymond
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6 Tips for Working with Writers and Directors
Learn how to build a creative and collaborative partnership with writers and directors as a performer. Collaboration lies at the heart of every successful stage or screen production. Whether you’re an actor, singer or writer, learning how to work effectively with writers and directors is an essential skill that can elevate not only your performance,…
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My Casting Story: Luke Brady in Disney’s ‘Hercules the Musical’
Performer Luke Brady on landing his Hercules role, how he takes care of his voice and the differences between stage and screen acting. Luke Brady makes a heroic return to the West End stage in the iconic leading role of ‘Hercules’ in Disney’s latest London-based musical. First he captivated audiences with his powerful performances as…
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Alyssa Thabisile Sibanda: A Year of Growth and Gratitude
Spotlight Prize winner Alyssa reflects on her acting journey and shares insights and advice for drama school graduates. Since winning the Stage Award at the Spotlight Prize 2024 for her performance of Many Moons, Alyssa has quickly become one to watch in the world of theatre. But her journey from an enthusiastic young performer to…
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How the Actors’ Benevolent Fund is Supporting Performers
What the Actors’ Benevolent Fund is, how performers can receive financial and wellbeing support from them, and why performers should have their say in their survey. The performing arts industry is known for its creativity and vibrancy, but behind the scenes, many actors and stage managers face challenges like financial difficulty and social isolation. Thankfully,…
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Senam Akpokavi: Navigating Post-Drama School Success
Senam Akpokavi talks about his acting career since winning the Spotlight Prize in 2024, including landing a regular role in a BBC series and adapting to life after drama school. In 2024, Senam Akpokavi’s excellent performance of For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy saw him win the Screen…
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Theatre Recommendations From Theatre Professionals
The winners and nominees of the Off-West End Awards 2025 share the best shows they’ve seen at the theatre this year. Thanks to all the talented performers in the UK and Ireland, there’s never a shortage of brilliant stage productions to see and enjoy. From theatre to musical theatre, on stages in the West End,…
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Bringing ‘If/Then’ to the West End as a Musical Concert
Kerry Ellis, Tom Kitt, Adam Blanshay and Jordan Langford share their experience of bringing ‘If/Then’ to the Savoy Theatre as a staged concert. In February, we offered Spotlight members the chance to book special discounted tickets to Broadway sensation If/Then in concert during its limited run at the Savoy Theatre. Members who joined us at…
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Nominees Revealed for the BAFTA Television Awards 2025
‘Baby Reindeer’, ‘Mr. Bates vs The Post Office’, ‘Rivals’ and ‘Slow Horses’ lead the BAFTA Television Awards 2025 nominations. The 2025 BAFTA Television Awards have now been revealed, with 134 different programmes being nominated across the various categories, including the BAFTA Television Craft Awards. Baby Reindeer received the most nominations across both television awards with…
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My Casting Story: Jeevan Braich in ‘Starlight Express’
It’s full steam ahead with Jeevan Braich as he shares his insights on playing ‘Rusty’ in ‘Starlight Express’ and his win at the WhatsOnStage Awards 2025. After over 20 years, Starlight Express is back in London. This revival features new songs, award-winning costumes, and a specially designed auditorium in Wembley. It also has a fresh…
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The Winners of the Off-West End Awards 2025
Davina de Campo presents a night of celebration and recognition for shows and creative teams working at venues outside of London’s West End. The winners of the 15th Off-West End Awards (‘Offies’) have been announced at a spectacular ceremony held in Central Hall Westminster. The Offies are vital for recognising the shows and creative teams…