NEW BBC FELLOWSHIP FOR BLACK & ASIAN ACTORS
(25 February 2003)

The BBC Radio Drama Company is offering a new training opportunity this year to people with a burning desire to act, or who are already actors. A new BBC Radio Drama fellowship named in honour of actor Norman Beaton is being launched, with a particular interest in attracting actors from minority ethnic backgrounds to auditions.

Open to professional actors, actors returning to work, or those new to the profession, the Norman Beaton Fellowship is designed to attract interest from people of Black, Asian, or Far East Asian origin to enter regional heats for the prestigious prize of six months training with the BBC.

ABOUT NORMAN BEATON

During his life Norman Beaton was widely recognised as a pioneering talent. He performed in Film, Theatre Television and Radio. He was one of those unique actors who managed to scale classical roles, yet excel in light comedies.

In the '70s he starred alongside Lenny Henry in the Fosters and in the '90s he became internationally famous as the hapless barber shop owner in Desmonds. American star Bill Cosby invited him to be a guest in The Cosby Show and for Desmonds he was awarded the Royal Television Society Best Comedy Performer. For Radio he has appeared in numerous plays including I Came from the Sun (1966); Blues for Mister Charlie (1974); Remembrance (1981); The Comedians (1984) and Cricket's a Mugs Game (1985).

Because Norman Beaton is a black actor held in high regard a Fellowship in his name will reflect the ambitions for more integrated casting in Radio Drama while making a real difference in the careers of aspiring young actors and actors returning to the profession.

NORMAN BEATON FELLOWSHIP HEATS

Open auditions will take place on the following dates on a first come, first served basis, with finals taking place in London in May 2003.

Requirements for the heats and information for those wanting to audition can be found on the website at www.bbc.co.uk/nbf where audition preparation advice is available, and people can check their eligibility to attend. (Because the BBC runs existing initiatives with some drama schools, students or graduates of these schools will not be permitted to enter.) There is also an information line on 0870 444 3900.