Ian McKellen Award

The winner of Aberystwyth Arts Centre Ian McKellen Award 2024 has been announced, following recent interviews.  The 2024 winner is Rhys Nutting. Rhys is one of the successful applications who will be studying a BA(Hons) in Sound Technology at The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) from September 2024. He will be awarded £500 to go towards the cost of his studies as part of this special award that was set up with funds donated during Sir Ian McKellen’s visit to the Arts Centre in 2019.

Rhys said: ‘I am honoured to receive the 2024 Sir Ian McKellen Award. I have to say a huge thankyou to the Aberystwyth Arts Centre and to Sir Ian McKellen for this opportunity. The award’s recognition of the technical side of the industry is truly inspiring and will motivate me to thrive in the industry whilst i study my BA(Hons) in Sound Technology at LIPA. Aberystwyth Arts Centre ignited my passion for the creative arts, making it a privilege to be selected for this award.’

Rhys attended Ysgol Bro Caereinion in Welshpool where he studied Welsh (First language), Music and Welsh Baccalaureate at A Level. He also gained work experience at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, with mentorship from the late Nick Bache.

Rhys was the unanimous choice from the Award’s interview panel, who were once again bowled over by the calibre of applicants for the award, Creative Learning Coordinator Laura Oliver said:
‘The standard of applications for the 2024 Award was again incredibly high, the panel were impressed by the skills and passion of all the award applicants. Rhys stood out as being particularly passionate and focused on his chosen career, having already achieved so much. He has a bright future ahead of him and we wish him every success.’

Dame Elan Closs Stephens DBE, member of the interview panel and Arts Centre advisory board said:
“This award came about through the generosity of Sir Ian McKellen who visited Aberystwyth Arts Centre as part of his 80th birthday tour.  Once again, we have found a young person who is dedicated, passionate and more than worthy to receive this important award.  The Panel were very impressed by Rhys and wish him well as he takes the next step in his career.’

Rhys follows in the footsteps of previous year’s winners. Gruffydd Rhys Evans (2023) who is currently studying a BA Hons in Acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA).  Tom Mathias (2022) first violinist in the Kuttner Quartet-in-residence at the Jacobs School of Music, Indiana University, for the 2022-2023 season, who is studying a Solo Violin Performer Diploma at Indiana University, Jacobs School of Music. Osian Pearson (2021) who studied an MA in Editing at the prestigious National Film and Television School (NFTS), Cerys Havana Hickman (2020) who studied for a degree in Music (BMus) at Goldsmiths, University of London, and joint winners (2019) Owain Gruffydd, who studied at the University of Northampton studying for a BA Hons Degree in Acting, and Laura Baker who gained a BA Hons Degree in Ballet Education at the Royal Academy of Dance.

When Sir Ian McKellen came to perform at the Arts Centre in February 2019, all the money raised from ticket sales and donations during his visit was kept safe to be used for supporting the Arts Centre’s important work with young people. A special prize was established, the Aberystwyth Arts Centre’s Ian McKellen Award, open to a young person between the ages of 16 – 25 who intends to continue their vocational training in the creative arts – including, but not limited to, theatre, dance, and the visual arts. £500 is available annually to award for candidates who can demonstrate artistic promise and the passion for their artform, and who are in receipt of a place for study during the following academic year.

About the award

The Ian McKellen Award is a great opportunity for young people who are passionate about the creative arts. It provides financial support and recognition for their talent, and helps them to achieve their dreams.

When Sir Ian McKellen came to perform at the Arts Centre in February 2019 for his 80th birthday tour, all the money raised from ticket sales and donations during his visit was kept safe to be used for supporting our work with young people.

In honour of such an inspirational man, and to put this money to good use, we established the Ian McKellen Award for young people.

Every year, we will award £500 to an individual who shows artistic potential and a deep passion for what they do. The money will help with their studies so the recipient must also have secured a place in a course of study for the upcoming academic year.

Who can apply?

This award is open to anyone between 16 and 25 who is passionate about the creative arts and wants to continue their vocational training. Whether you’re interested in theatre, dance, visual arts, or anything else, we want to help you reach your full potential.

Applications are now closed for 2024, keep an eye out here for the next round of applications in 2025!