John Bell Scholarship 2022

We sat down with Griffin, a recipient of the John Bell Scholarship from Tasmania to discuss their experience.

Tell us about a highlight of the week for you – or a few highlights!

A big highlight would be our Movement masterclass with Sam Chester. It really shifted my understanding of acting and gave me a lot of confidence in my body and approach to work.

Another highlight would be working on my monologue with John Bell. He was so kind to us and such a skilled and perceptive director.

Additionally, any interactions I had with the actors from The Comedy Of Errors throughout the week. It was amazing to see them do what they love and they were all willing to share advice and encouragement which meant so much to me.

What’s a discovery that you made this week – about yourself, about acting, about Shakespeare?

I learned that I do not have to pressure myself to get everything ‘right’. I simply have to walk through a process of connection and discovery. Shakespeare rewards this approach because his writing offers so much for us to explore.

Why do you think the John Bell Scholarship is an important program for young people in regional areas?

Finding training opportunities, live theatre and examples of young people working in the arts can be tricky in regional areas. The John Bell Scholarship shows young people what is possible in the arts no matter where you come from. It gives young people a chance to train with and observe highly skilled artists and meet other young people from around the country who have the same dream as them.

What would you say to other young people thinking about auditioning for the John Bell Scholarship?

Go for it! I cannot recommend it enough. Even if you don’t get it, you’ll learn something valuable through the audition process.

What would you say to the people who donated money to make the JBS program possible?

Thank you for believing in Bell Shakespeare and thank you for making this possible for me. This experience empowered me so much, I really appreciate your support.

Anything else you’d like to add or share?

Regional students, teachers and audiences are important, and Bell Shakespeare really goes above and beyond to empower and inspire them.