Stephen Lister has been awarded Acting Student of the year 2023. This award goes to the student who has produced the strongest work across different mediums. Staff commented that Stephen won the award because he has “grown and developed hugely over his three years of study.  His work has become more nuanced and considered.  This year he has worked across mediums to a high level and with a wonderful spirit adding to any project he has been involved in.”

Stephen joined us in 2020, after college to develop his skills, speaking of joining the school he said; “my career propelled when I joined The Northern School of Art. As soon as I first entered this university for my audition, I already felt at home which is why I was overjoyed to be accepted”.

We caught up with Stephen to find out more about the award, his future ambitions and life as an acting student at The Northern School of Art:

• What’s your favourite memory of your time at the School (academically as well as socially!)

One of my favourite memories at the university academically was the final performance of When All that’s left, because we gave all our energy to put on an amazing performance and I’m so proud of everyone. A recent favourite memory was watching Intricate Innards of Human Beings with everyone at the film festival because we were all so proud of what we’ve accomplished, and we were able to share it with everyone that we loved. I must give all my friends credit because without them I wouldn’t be where I am now, and I love them all for it.

• What are you doing next and what are your plans/ambitions for the future?

My future aspirations are that I would like to join the MA Directing and Theatre Making course so I can improve my skills in writing and directing.

• Any advice for future students applying for the same course as you?

One advice I would give too future students is that always keep your head up and don’t be afraid to fail, if you have a bad year just brush it off and keep working hard.

• Anything else you want to add?

The last thing I would like to do is thank all my lectures for keeping their faith in me and again I would like to thank all my friends and family for helping me on this journey. I would also like to dedicate this award to Jake Lister.

If you are interested in studying Acting we offer a dynamic and well-established degree course. Click the link to find out more about our offer and apply. We also offer a college-level UAL Extended diploma at our Middlesbrough campus.