Birmingham Rep has announced the eight young actors selected for its new intensive training programme, Rep Studio 8. The initiative offers Midlands-based performers practical training, workshops, and performance opportunities to build sustainable theatre careers.
The 2026 cohort includes Maisie Britton, Reece Cameron Fielding, Victor A Daniels, Lerissa Doré, Samuel Gold Akanbi, Quennie Lim, Loretta Thompson, and Kevvauna Welsh. Participants will take part in masterclasses with industry professionals and perform in The Red Shoes during the Rep Rising summer festival and Twelfth Night on a Theatre in Education tour.
Funded by The JABBS Foundation, the programme provides both training and bursaries for the eight participants.
Head of Young Rep at Birmingham Rep, Becky Deeks said:
“Rep Studio 8 is a programme we’ve wanted to launch for some time, and we’re incredibly grateful to The JABBS Foundations for making it possible. The eight performers were selected from The Company at The Rep, where there is an incredible pool of talent, and we wanted to offer an intensive training opportunity for performers who may not be able to or may not want to attend drama school. Led by working theatre professionals, it offers an alternative training programme that focuses on developing versatile performers ready for a range of theatre settings and also offers them networking opportunities to integrate themselves into working theatres. We’re already hugely impressed by what the eight are achieving and look forward to seeing them perform in the coming months.”
Creative Learning Director Rachel Sharpe added:
“Rep Studio 8 plays a crucial role in supporting emerging performers to develop their craft, grow in confidence, and build sustainable careers here in Birmingham.”
The programme builds on The Rep’s long history of championing new talent.
More information on community engagement and participation can be found at www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/take-part.
CREDIT:- Kris Askew
