The Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and the Theatre Development Trust have announced the recipients of the 2026 Laurence Olivier Bursaries, recognising exceptional drama school students across the UK.
Now in its 39th year, the bursary scheme was first established in 1987 to mark Laurence Olivier’s 80th birthday, and continues to support talented performers facing financial barriers as they complete their training.
This year’s awards are supported by the Theatre Development Trust alongside contributions from the Estate of Sir Peter and Lady Saunders, The Clothworkers’ Foundation, the estate of Carmen Silvera via Barry Burnett, and The Casting Directors’ Guild.
Students are nominated by drama schools nationwide before auditioning in London and being interviewed by a panel of industry professionals chaired by SOLT President Kash Bennett.
Past recipients of the bursary include Michaela Coel, Denise Gough, Paterson Joseph, Ewan McGregor and Michael Sheen.
The 2026 Laurence Olivier Bursary recipients are Bonnie Lowden, Charlotte Jameson, Finley Miller and Jay Gherie.
Annie McGinn receives The Sir Peter and Lady Saunders Laurence Olivier Bursary, while Jack Wright is awarded The Clothworkers’ Laurence Olivier Bursary.
Jola Olajide and Phoebe Douglas are recipients of the Carmen Silvera Bursary, and Asante Finlay receives The Casting Directors’ Guild Bursary.
The initiative continues to play a vital role in supporting the next generation of performers as they transition from training into the professional industry.
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