Since 2022, we funded the Production and Technical Arts Pathways Programme at LAMDA to help young people from underrepresented backgrounds access the arts at a higher education level.
The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA) is the oldest specialist drama school in the UK that offers training to actors, technicians, and directors. They’re committed to widening access to the arts by delivering targeted initiatives as part of the Pathways Programme.
The purpose of LAMDA’s Pathways Programme is to remove any barriers that prevent young people from disadvantaged backgrounds from accessing education in the creative sector. Some of the ways they achieve this is by offering fee waivers, travel bursaries and scholarships.
Our funding has been used to support the delivery of the Production and Technical Arts Pathways Programme. This gives young people the opportunity to receive one of two full scholarships alongside being supported to attend opens days and free technical workshops.
I’ve learnt so much about myself and being in such a supportive environment really makes me feel like I can be expressive and be open.
Pathways Programme Participant
During the Covid-19 pandemic, many professional in technical and production roles chose to diversify their skills in other industries due to lockdown restrictions. This means the industry is in a good position to be influenced by a young and diverse group of incoming professionals.
One of the ways the Pathways Programme increases participation in the arts is by creating more inclusive and accessible routes into the sector. By developing strong partnerships with production youth theatres, they can offer specialised workshops, advice, and travel support.
Alongside creating new routes into the industry, the programme also raises awareness of backstage theatre roles that young people might not otherwise be aware of. Introducing young people to a wide variety of roles broadens their future goals and employment opportunities.
The Production and Technical Arts Pathways Programme provides full scholarships for two young people to study at LAMDA. These are a highly employable courses that allow students to benefit from the world-leading training, facilities, and exciting productions on offer at LAMDA.
Students who graduate from LAMDA have consistently appeared in industry awards for their achievements including the Oscars, BAFTA’s, Golden Globes, and Tony Awards. We’re really proud to support LAMDA to help more young people to participate in higher education.
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