The Luke Westlake Scholarship is given annually to a working-class student ahead of their final year by Just Add Milk Theatre Company to support them as they finish their studies and launch their career. This year, the Scholarship has been awarded to Melodie Karczewski who was chosen by a panel of judges from a shortlist of eight applicants.
Karczewski, who is from Thanet in Kent, is a second year BA (hons) Acting course student at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and the first disabled recipient of the scholarship. She will receive a package of support valued at more than £4,000 made up of Spotlight membership, subscription to The Stage, headshots, showreel, stage combat training, tax return accountancy, agent and casting director introductions, and £500 towards rent.
Judging panel member and casting director Faye Timby said, “we received a high volume of applications this year, which was extremely rewarding as it demonstrated a raise in the profile of the company and the incredible work that JAM strives to do but it also meant that the competition was fierce, and in turn, it made choosing our recipient a great deal harder. Melodie’s talent in her audition tapes was undeniable. Her performances translated as truthful and authentic, something even the most accomplished actors can struggle to achieve.”
Also on the panel were Ian Aryeh of the BAFTA Rocliffe New Writing Showcase, Jaz Hutchins of GoHub, Scarlett Maltman and Mary Burch BME of Industry Minds, Liam McLaughlin, Kristian Wall and Kyle Rowe from Just Add Milk, and Luke Westlake’s parents.
Karczewski's fellow shortlisted applicants, Rawaed Asde, Rebecca Bell, Amelia Braithwaite, Ibraheem Hussain, Meg Olssen, Olivia Simpson and Evie Ward-Drummond will receive workshops with an agent and casting director.