Dawn Sturgess Bursary

We have partnered with Wiltshire Creative to launch a bursary in honour and memory of Dawn Sturgess, who died on 8^th July 2018 after coming into contact with the nerve agent Novichok. We intended to award one budding drama school acting student with £30,000 towards their living costs while studying (£10,000 a year for 3 years). However when it came to meeting the shortlisted candidates, we were so impressed with all three that we awarded the full bursary to Cassia, and also awarded £7,500 bursaries to Katie and Molly.

Cassia: “This bursary means I can breathe easy in a way I didn’t think possible. Before being offered the bursary, I didn’t realise how much the stress of costs was clouding and tainting my feelings around drama school. Now, I can allow myself to feel excited; I can think and plan, knowing I’ll be able to get the most out of my training.”

Mollie: “This bursary creates a sense of relief and freedom for both me and my family. I now feel secure in my financial situation over the course of the next 3 years and reassures me that I can focus on my studies without having to worry about my finances. I'll be able to put my time and energy into focusing on my work at Rose Bruford.”

Katie: “I’m very grateful to have been awarded this bursary in memory of Dawn Sturgess. This bursary will allow me to fully immerse myself in my 3-year degree course meaning I will be able to gain the most out of my training. The knowledge that I will be supported throughout my time at drama school by Wiltshire Creative and Dancing Ledge Productions has reassured me that I will be able to fully apply myself to my drama school experience.”