Q&A with 2024-25 Student Presidents
Earlier this year, we spoke to Nigel Sudarkasa, Rita Silva and Brie Covington, members of the 2024-25 student president team, about their experiences of training at LAMDA. From courses and socialising, to inspiration and personal growth, here's what they had to say.
Why did you decide to train at LAMDA? How is it different from other drama schools?
Nigel: When I first decided to get my master's degree, there was only one school that came to mind: LAMDA. After looking through multiple drama schools and their offerings, it was clear that LAMDA would be the only one that could provide what I was looking for. It offers a two-year programme that isn’t strictly classical, with a deeper understanding of both stage and new media.
Rita: I chose LAMDA because of its great reputation for training, but also because every alum I spoke to talked about the strong sense of community here. That really stood out to me.
What does a typical day on your course look like?
Nigel: A typical day in our first year kicked off with a mandatory physical and vocal warm-up before technique classes from morning to late afternoon. By second year, we shifted to self-directed warm-ups and rehearsals, making our own choices to bring projects to life.
Rita: In the BA Acting programme, first and second years usually have classes from 9 to 5:30 every day, covering a bit of everything – accents, stage combat, voice work, singing, movement and acting technique. For third years, most days are filled with rehearsals, working with classmates, external directors, and the amazing PTASS (Production & Technical Arts) team.
“LAMDA is one of the most social places I've ever been in… where negative competition just isn’t a factor.”
What’s the social scene like?
Nigel: LAMDA is one of the most social places I've ever been in. One of the best things is how much it emphasises working as an ensemble. I've never been in such a supportive environment where negative competition just isn’t a factor.
Brie: As an international student, new to both the school and the country, I found adapting to the social scene quite challenging. Over time, however, I was able to find and foster a community within LAMDA.
What has been the most rewarding thing about being a student at LAMDA?
Rita: Honestly, the people I’ve met have been the best part. They’ve made my experience worth it and helped me grow as an actor and a human being every day.
Brie: Having the opportunity to work with some of the most passionate and committed artists – both tutors and students – as well as visiting artists.
Who is one person at LAMDA that’s really inspired you, and why?
Nigel: One of the people who’s inspired me the most at LAMDA would have to be our film and TV instructor, James Harkness. I truly believe he pushed me to explore new aspects of my range that I had never explored before, in a safe and engaging way.
Rita: If I had to pick a tutor, it would be Brittany Cope. She’s talented, supportive, and really caring – about you as an artist and as a person going through this journey.
How has your time at LAMDA prepared you for a career?
Nigel: Thanks to the training and the experiences I’ve had, I feel more ready than ever. What really sets LAMDA actors apart is their ability to collaborate and deeply investigate the text.
Brie: I came to LAMDA thinking I would leave a better actor, but the greatest achievement LAMDA has afforded me will be walking away a better human being, and as a result, a more enriched, well-rounded artist.
“The people I’ve met have been the best part… they’ve helped me grow as an actor and a human being.”
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you before you arrived?
Nigel: I wish I had known just how much I’d grow before starting drama school. You don’t just improve at your craft – you also learn a lot about yourself and how to empathise with others.
Rita: It’s going to be tough, but totally worth it.
Train at LAMDA
Applications are open for September 2026 entry to our undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in acting, production & technical arts, directing and musical theatre.
