As a part of our mission to make DSL actor training as accessible as possible, The Friends of DSL was set up as an independent and registered charity with the aim to provide small bursaries to DSL students in need.
The bursaries are aimed to alleviate financial pressures. They are not currently eligible to cover course fees. However, we are looking into ways to provide scholarships going forward.
Friends is always working to increase the amount of funding available to support as many students in training as possible.
If you are an alumni of DSL or would simply like to play a part in helping actors in training, donations can be made by cheque to Friends of Drama Studio London and posted to 1 Grange Road, Ealing, London W5 5QN. You can also make a bank transfer – please contact us on marketing@dramastudiolondon.co.uk for details.
“I applied for The Friends of DSL Bursary in the beginning of my final year. We were still in the COVID-19 pandemic and I was unemployed at the time, after being made redundant so I was struggling financially. The bursary was such a huge help for me, not just as financial support but mental as well. Because of the bursary I was able to start my final year with less weight on my shoulders, and even find a new job that saw me through until graduation. I owe a huge thank you to The Friends of DSL who helped me finish my studies during those very difficult and stressful times”
A Message from our Trustee Patron, Dame Judi Dench, CH, DBE, FRSA
“I am delighted to know that Drama Studio London is trying to set up a bursary scheme to help train talented actors who would otherwise struggle to meet the costs of DSL’s excellent training.
I am happy to support anything that will increase the amount in your coffers and encourage even more impecunious students to take up training. The idea of some of this money coming from successful alumni is very moving and I wish you every success.”
Applying for A Friends of DSL bursary
Any applications for grants must be for living expenses not for fees, and can only be applied for once a place has been accepted and confirmed.
There are no deadlines for applications whilst you are a still a current student. The decision on how many bursaries can be made, subject to available funds, will be made by the small panel of trustees on a regular basis.
No audition is required, and bursaries are offered on the basis of financial need. Please provide a letter no longer than 1 A4 page addressed to the Director of DSL setting out the case for receiving assistance.
Trustees