Patrons
The National School Theatre Awards® are privileged to be supported by a diverse group of experts deeply committed to empowering young people to pursue their dreams in the performing arts. Our voluntary patrons are accomplished professionals in their respective fields, offering a wealth of knowledge and experience to guide and inspire the next generation of talent.
“As a patron of the National School Theatre Awards, I am proud to support an initiative that celebrates the emerging talent of young performers. Having had the privilege of presenting the Best Actor award at the National School Theatre Awards 2024, I was truly impressed by the passion and creativity displayed. These awards provide a fantastic platform for the next generation of actors, and it’s an honour to be part of something so special”
David Bradley, Actor
BAFTA and Olivier Award Winner
“As a patron of the National School Theatre Awards I am honoured to celebrate the dedication and passion of young actors. Witnessing the hard-work they put into school productions and the immediate rewards it brings is truly inspiring”.
Callum Turner, Actor
BAFTA Nominee
“I am delighted to be supporting the NSTAs. School productions are often the stepping stone for many actors, singers and dancers and it is fantastic to be recognising the hard-work commitment and talent that goes into these shows”
Kara Tointon, Actress
“I’m thrilled to be a patron of the NSTAs. The arts in education are invaluable. My husband is a drama teacher so I know how much time, dedication and creativity goes into school productions from students and teachers. I think all of these things should be celebrated and what better way than this.”
Jo Joyner, Actress
Rose d’Or Award Winner
“Being part of school productions was the catalyst for me to pursue my current career. With NSTA, I’m thrilled to help recognise the dedication and creativity of our next generation of stars!”
Chris Ma, Musical Director
Credits: Dear Evan Hansen, Newsies, Pippin, Death Note: The Musical
“School productions are vital for the development of young people’s creativity and I’m so glad the NSTAs have been formed to recognise all the hard-work involved”
Zoe Boyle, Actress
“In my profession, I have witnessed first-hand the transformative power of the arts in schools. Supporting the National School Theatre Awards is not just about celebrating talent, but nurturing the next generation of creative minds”
James Taylor, Music Supervisor
Nominated for Guild of Music Supervisors Award: “Best Musical Supervision”
Credits: Wonka, Aladdin, Yesterday, Cats, Jingle Jangle, Pinocchio, Greatest Days
“School theatre shaped my life. It gave me the confidence to express myself and the space to explore who I wanted to be. Those early experiences on stage still influence me today, and I believe every young person should have that opportunity.
George Bukhari, Actor
“I have the privilege of working with some of the most talented people in stage, TV, and film, and being part of the National School Theatre Awards to help develop budding young performers is a joy. Whether you win an award or not, it is the process of rehearsals, performing, and working creatively that matters most!”
Eoin Mallon, Vocal Coach and Producer
Credits: Lion King 30, Moana 2, Wonka, Paddington, Better Man
Coach to: Hugh Jackman, Olivia Coleman, Jeremy Irons
“As a casting director, I am continually amazed by the talent showcased at the productions I visit on behalf of the National School Theatre Awards. This is an amazing platform for discovering fresh, young talent, and I am proud to support such an inspiring initiative. The dedication and passion these students bring to the stage are truly remarkable. Supporting the next generation of performers is not just an investment in their future, but in the future of theatre itself.”
Francesca Bradley, Casting Director
“I am proud to support the National School Theatre Awards. Drama in schools nurtures empathy and essential skills, offering a transformative escape. It’s the seed of change, envisioning a world where creativity thrives.”
Tracy Dorrington, Drama Practitioner
Founder of Drama Matters – the UK’s largest network of Drama professionals.
Bekka Bowling, comedienne, actor and writer
