Scholarship spot for young Margaret River actor

A Margaret River local is one of just four young actors from regional Australia to be selected for a prestigious spot in the 2024 John Bell Scholarship program.

Margaret River SHS student Annabel Bancroft will join three other young actors for the life-changing opportunity to work with some of Australia’s most respected actors, directors, and educators.

The young performers were selected by a panel including Bell Shakespeare Artistic Director Peter Evans and Founding Artistic Director John Bell, following auditions involving 91 students from across the country.

“Having the opportunity to work with such an incredible company is truly an honour,” Annabel said after her selection.

“I feel extremely lucky to have been given this opportunity and can’t wait to learn.”

The program will see Annabel head east in January to take part in a week-long residency at Bell Shakespeare’s Sydney headquarters, where she will participate in intensive acting masterclasses, train with Bell Shakespeare artists, undertake mentoring sessions, observe rehearsals for the Company’s 2025 production, Henry 5, and attend live performances.

The week will culminate in a special performance where scholarship recipients will present a Shakespeare monologue to the Henry 5 cast, receiving expert feedback and invaluable career guidance.

Bell Shakespeare Artistic Director Peter Evans said the scholarship offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for young Australians from regional areas who aspire to a career in the performing arts.

“It’s a privilege to nurture emerging talent and to share Shakespeare’s works with the next generation of artists,” he said.

“This year’s auditions showcased extraordinary enthusiasm and skill, and we are excited to welcome Annabel, Ryan, Emma, and Jonathan to our headquarters in January.”

Bell Shakespeare’s Head of Education, Joanna Erskine, added, “the John Bell Scholarship is more than just an opportunity to develop one’s craft – it’s a powerful program that allows young talented performers to connect with leading industry professionals, gain invaluable insights, and immerse themselves in exceptional training.

“This program represents everything we stand for at Bell Shakespeare: nurturing imagination and potential, championing young people, and providing access to Shakespeare and the arts,” she said.

“These four young winners have a bright future ahead, and we are thrilled to support them with this opportunity.”