I'm originally from Hobart, Tasmania and I was a recipient of the John Bell Scholarship in 2019.
One of the greatest memories I have from the John Bell Scholarship week was being in the room with John Bell. Having one on one chats with him was a surreal experience. It’s John Bell – I never thought I’d meet him! And being able to watch the rehearsals of Hamlet under Peter Evan’s direction was so inspiring to someone as young as I was.
If I could speak to someone who was considering auditioning for the Scholarship, I would say, “Take the opportunity and run with it”, because that fifteen-minute audition can change your perspective on so many things. Even if you don’t get the Scholarship, you still get a chance to see what your career could possibly become.
I remember the day I got the call saying I was receiving the scholarship; I was so overwhelmed I just bawled my eyes out for so long. I'd never dreamt of something like this being possible - I mean, I hadn’t seen any black individuals in theatre at that point. Tasmania is really small! It wasn’t until I saw Zindzi Okenyo as Beatrice in Bell Shakespeare’s national tour of Much Ado About Nothing - it was that moment I felt like I had an opportunity to move further in this career like her.
The work Bell Shakespeare does – taking these shows and opportunities all over Australia – is essential. It allows you to dream outside the limits of your world.
To support Bell Shakespeare, you can donate online or contact our Philanthropy Team via email or phone at 02 8220 7523.