YOUNG actor Owain Yeoman of Chepstow has just won himself a coveted chance to study at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art – but he is asking local firms and individuals for help to tread the boards.
Because the three year Acting Diploma Course is classed as vocational training rather than a degree course Owain is not eligible for student loans.
He therefore needs all the help he can get to augment money from his family and his part-time earnings towards his upkeep and tuition over the three years.
"I am really pleased to be going but I would like help," said Owain.
And RADA principal Nicholas Barter said they had a history of providing scholarships for talented youngsters with financial hardships but demand far outstripped supply.
The government was also introducing a new funding scheme for dance and drama students but there were too few awards to be able to help Owain.
"Owain is a very talented young man and has won his place here following a very competitive three-stage process," said Mr Barter.
"Over 1,100 students have been auditioned this year and only 34 places are offered for the acting course.
"I urge anyone with sufficient resources who is able to offer financial assistance to this talented local young man to do so in the knowledge that they are investing in the theatre of the future."