ArtsEd Student Shortlisted For 'Olivier' Award

For her 'outstanding' performance in Liberian Girl at Royal Court

ArtsEd acting student Juma Sharkah has been shortlisted for a prestigious Oliver Award before even graduating. Juma was nominated for her performance in Liberian Girl at the Jerwood Theatre Upstairs at the Royal Court, in the 'Outstanding Achievement in an Affiliate Theatre' category.

Jane Harrison, Principal of ArtsEd, said: “This is a truly extraordinary achievement. Juma won universal praise for her stunning performance in Liberian Girl and this award recognition is justifiably deserved.”

Liberian Girl, Diana Nneka Atuona’s debut play, tells the story of one girl’s struggle for survival and was inspired by the events which unfolded in Liberia between 1989 and 2003. The Affiliate category celebrates contemporary writing and in addition to Juma’s performance, the shortlist comprises: Bull at The Maria at the Young Vic and Hampstead Downstairs' Four Minutes Twelve Seconds, as well as recognising Tanya Moodie in both Intimate Apparel at the Park Theatre and The House That Will Not Stand at the Tricycle Theatre.

The Olivier Award winners will be announced at a star-studded ceremony at the Royal Opera House on Sunday 12 April with a full television highlights package broadcast on ITV later that evening.

March 19, 2015