SSSSPOTY 2024
Venue: Sondheim Theatre
Date: 9 June, 3pm
Host: Bonnie Langford
Prize-giving: Jenna Russell
MD: Nigel Lilley; Assistant MD: John Haslam
Director: Hannah Chissick
Choreographer: Myles Brown
Stage Manager: Ali Wade; Assistant Stage Manager: Benedict Rattray
Guest Performers: Milly Willows, Joaquin Pedro Valdes and Ronav Jain, Jack Quarton and Molly Osborne; National Youth Music Theatre ensemble
Winner: Madeleine Morgan (Royal Academy of Music)
Runner-up: Gavin Rasmussen (LAMDA)
Commendation: Oliver Halford (Emil Dale Academy)
Chair of the Judges: Edward Seckerson
Judges: Fra Fee, Callum Scott Howells, Jak Malone, Alex Parker, Jenna Russell
The 16th annual SSSSPOTY competition was staged once again in London's West End in the Sondheim Theatre... and hosted by none other than Sondheim's Old Friends star Bonnie Langford!
Putting the 12 finalists through their paces from the piano was Musical Director Nigel Lilley (The Witches, Next to Normal, The Band's Visit, Follies and Company).
Finalists
Holly Adams (Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance)
Brooke Bazarian (LAMDA)
Oliver Halford (Emil Dale Academy)
Harrison Langham (ArtsEd)
Katie Leach (LAMDA)
Madeleine Morgan (Royal Academy of Music)
Rowen Newsome (Brighton Academy)
Tumi Olufawo (Bristol Old Vic Theatre School)
Thomas Oxley (Italia Conti)
Daisy Pearson (Rose Bruford College)
Gavin Rasmussen (LAMDA)
Josh Rosewood (Mountview)
The winner, taking home the £1,000 first prize, was Madeleine Morgan from the Royal Academy of Music. Runner-up was Gavin Rasmussen from LAMDA, who won £500; and singled out for a special commendation was Emil Dale Academy's Oliver Halford.
Meet the Finalists
Holly Adams (she/her)
Trinity Laban – BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (third year)
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"What More Do I Need?" from Saturday Night
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"Off With Their Hears" from Alice in Winterland by Eamonn O'Dwyer
About me: I was born and raised in Essex. I started singing when I was 6 years old. After copying Connie Talbot as she sang “Somewhere over the Rainbow” on Britain’s Got Talent. I’ve been performing ever since. I’d go to singing classes at Sylvia Young on Saturdays and I attended a choir called the Carmel Thomas Youth Singers on Sundays as well as being a member of Spirit Young Performers Company.
I began classical singing lessons when I was 11, completing my graded exams and entering music festivals. I had ambitions to become a classical singer until I performed in the ensemble of an am dram production of Les Misérables, and realised I wanted to be a musical theatre performer instead. So, off I went to ArtsEd Sixth form. Going into full-time training after attending an ordinary secondary school, I remember thinking “Wait, I get to be this happy every day?” Then for my foundation year, I attended READ college, where I learnt so much, met the best people and made lifelong friends.
While training at Trinity Laban, I have played a wide variety of roles including Lord Farquuad in Shrek, Leia Dawkins in Loserville, Violet Newstead in 9 to 5 and Rona Lisa Peretti in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
Sondheim experience: My first time learning Sondheim was at Sylvia Young, without realising it, singing “Comedy Tonight”! Despite learning and discovering Sondheim’s work as I grew up, I’ve never had the opportunity to perform a Sondheim musical. Although, of course, it’s a big goal of mine. I remember one of my first times performing Sondheim was at ArtsEd, during a group project, we performed “Company” from Company. I played Joanne, so, naturally, for research, I went to see Patti Lu Pone playing the role in 2018. Life changing.
Favourite Sondheim song: So many of them touch me to my core but I think it has to be “Being Alive”. I think he perfectly captures the human experience of longing.
Favourite Sondheim show: I have loved the songs from Gypsy ever since I was little, but my favourite entirely Sondheim musical is Into the Woods.
Dream role: I’d love to be Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes, but I’d also love to be in the ensemble of Les Mis and covering Fantine/Madame Thenardier.
Who most inspires you? As a performer, Sierra Boggess; not only is she an astounding performer and beautiful singer, her kindness and positivity radiates and I have a framed photo of her quote “You are enough, you are so enough, it is unbelievable how enough you are” on my window sill. As a human being, my inspiration is my family, especially my mum, dad and my grandparents. Their support and passion for everything I do inspires me every single day.
“It’s still a bit of a ‘pinch me’ moment to be a finalist for SSSSPOTY 2024, if I’m honest. I am so grateful and delighted to have made it this far, and I’m going to absorb every single moment up on that stage! I can’t thank The Stephen Sondheim Society enough for this opportunity!”
Brooke Bazarian (she/they)
LAMDA – MFA Professional Acting (second year)
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"Sunday in the Park with George?" from Sunday in the Park with George
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"Lost in Translations" from Lift by Craig Adams
About me: I’m from just outside of Portland, Maine. My hometown is right on the coast of one of the most naturally beautiful states in the U.S. It will always be my favourite place on earth!
My love for musical theatre blossomed from watching classics like The Sound of Music and Hello, Dolly! over and over again as a little kid. Those VCR tapes didn’t stand a chance. I finally made my own acting debut in my preschool’s production of The Enormous Turnip when I was four. Critics raved. I was hooked. A few years later, my mom signed me up for singing and dance lessons, and, of course, theatre camp, and I haven’t stopped performing since.
I was lucky to go through two truly magical theatre programmes, first in high school, then at Dartmouth College as a Theatre major. I was in something like 30 productions, and I got to play some iconic roles over the years, including Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors and Adelaide in Guys and Dolls. Now I’m a soon-to-be LAMDA grad, and I can’t wait to see what’s up next!
Sondheim experience: I was #blessed to play Cinderella in Into the Woods in college. As someone who has seen the 1987 Broadway recording maybe 8 million times, getting to be in that production was a dream come true.
Favourite Sondheim song: It changes all the time but right now it’s “We Do Not Belong Together” from Sunday in the Park with George. I keep crying on public transit listening to it, though, so I should probably switch it up.
Favourite Sondheim show: Into the Woods
Dream role: Oh god. Dot in Sunday in the Park with George, Clara in The Light in the Piazza, Fanny Brice, Eurydice... I’m easy!
Who most inspires you? In the musical theatre realm, it’s gotta be Jessie Mueller. Every part she plays feels so deeply human, and she has this natural emotional vulnerability that just makes me want to cry. But my biggest inspiration of all is my parents. They are both doctors, and are two of the hardest working and most generous people I know. They have supported me endlessly, from driving me to ballet lessons as a kid to flying to across the Atlantic to see me perform at LAMDA, and I would not be here without them!
“I feel incredibly honoured to be a finalist for SSSSPOTY 2024 – I haven’t stopped pinching myself! Sondheim has meant so much to me for as long as I can remember, so it means everything to be able to celebrate his work in this way. I’m very grateful to be a part of it, and to be counted among such a talented group of performers.“
Oliver Halford (he/him)
Emil Dale Academy – BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (second year)
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"I'm Calm" from A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
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"Infinity" from The Blackfriars Boys by Josh Sneesby and Sarah Middleton
About me: I was born and raised in Loughborough, a university town in Leicestershire, and grew up with my parents and three brothers. I first became interested in performing as a child when I watched my older brother on stage and wanted to have a go. From there, I began performing in youth theatre and amateur dramatics before realising that maybe I’d like to do this as more than just a hobby. I then began having singing lesson to prepare myself from auditioning for drama schools.
Sondheim experience: I was fortunate enough to perform my first Sondheim piece just a couple of months before I began my training. I was asked last minute if I’d be interested in playing Rapunzel’s Prince in Into the Woods after someone else had to drop out of the production; I was immediately interested, having wanted to perform some of Sondheim’s work for a while!
Favourite Sondheim song: As the song I used to audition for this competition, “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” from Merrily We Roll Along. The intricacies and organised chaos of that song is fascinating and so much fun to perform.
Favourite Sondheim show: There are quite a few I could choose but I think I’d have to go with Assassins. I find it such an interesting premise and there’s so much you can do the with piece. I’d never seen or heard any of it until last year and then immediately loved it!
Dream role: Marty McFly in Back to the Future. When someone decides to combine musicals with your favourite film and it really works, of course you’re going to want to be a part of it!
Who most inspires you? My parents. Both have a dedication and commitment to achieving their dreams no matter what that’s incredibly admirable. They’ve supported and encouraged me not only through auditions for drama schools and training, but right since I first found this passion. They never once let me feel like it was some far fetched dream and for that I am incredibly grateful. Within my training, I also have to mention the incredible Nick Evans. As my acting-through-song teacher, he was the person whose immense knowledge and passion inspired me to learn and push harder. He encouraged and inspired me to give everything my all and not be phased by what anyone else might think, a lesson I’m very thankful for.
“It is truly an honour to have been selected as one of the finalists. To be surrounded by incredible talent and get the opportunity to perform on a West End stage at the end of my second year is an insane opportunity and one I never even dreamed of when I began my training. Being able to represent Emil Dale Academy is also a privilege. It’s a school that, while young, should not be doubted for a second. Everyone has been so supportive and generous and I have to thank them all for that.“
Harrison Langham (he/him)
ArtsEd – BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (third year)
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"Love, I Hear" from A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
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"There's Always Tomorrow" from Peter Pan by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe
About me: I was born and raised in Lancashire. I started acting and dance classes at age 6 at a local drama school, then singing lessons at around age 9. I first got interested in performing at a very young age being obsessed with classic MGM films like The Wizard Of Oz. At age 13, I was lucky enough to play Bruce in Matilda The Musical in London. This was the moment I realised I wanted to have a career performing. From the age of 11 to 18, I attended StageBox, a musical theatre company which took my training to a very high standard preparing me for my future. At 16, I attended LIPA Sixth Form, with a goal of going to ArtsEd at 18. As a soon-to-be graduate, I’m very excited to step into the industry and I’m very grateful to be part of this competition.
Sondheim experience: I performed the song, “Children Will Listen” with the StageBox choir at the 2019 What’sOnStage Awards with Hannah Waddingham. From being introduced to Sondheim at a very young age, his music has a definite place in my heart. I love that he prioritises acting over anything else, which definitely sets him apart from the rest.
Favourite Sondheim song: “Losing My Mind”.
Favourite Sondheim show: Sweeney Todd.
Dream role: Pippin!
Who most inspires you? Ashley Day inspires me as a performer. He has had such a varied career on stage and on screen, having performed one of my dream roles – Billy Lawlor in 42nd Street. His acting, singing, dancing and charisma is undeniable as he commands the stage with his presence. He is an absolute triple threat and has proven that it’s possible to work in every corner of this industry.
“The fact that I will be performing in the final of the SSSSPOTY 2024 competition makes me feel truly honoured. To be performing with some of the most talented musicians, actors and performers of this year‘s graduates is truly a privilege for me. It is also an honour to be part of this legacy, collectively sharing our love for the work and life of Sondheim.”
Katie Leach (she/her)
LAMDA – MA Musical Theatre (one year)
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"The Miller's Son" from A Little Night Music
- "It's Been a Year" from Lift by Craig Adams
About me: I was born and raised just outside of Cambridge before relocating to Yorkshire after my exams. I’ve always had such a passion for performing, and was extremely lucky to attend a secondary school that really championed the arts (especially musical theatre!) so was regularly involved in school musicals as well as being a part of a local theatre company. I have done regular cabaret work with Sad Girl Shows, Mrs Riot and The Singers Space, also working with the artist Surie as a backing vocalist for her solo shows across London. I also have a passion for songwriting and was a featured artist for BBC Music Introducing Yorkshire before heading to LAMDA.
Sondheim experience: My first experience with Sondheim’s work was Into The Woods with a local theatre company when I was 15. I played Cinderella, which I have such fond memories of. It means even more to be coming back to Into The Woods this year with LAMDA, this time being fortunate enough to play The Baker’s Wife and getting to perform one of my favourite musicals all summer long in London and Edinburgh!
Favourite Sondheim song: An almost impossible question! It’s a toss up between “Losing My Mind” or “Opening Doors”.
Favourite Sondheim show: Merrily We Roll Along has been and will always be the answer!
Dream role: So many! However, any of the queens in Six would be a dream come true!
Who most inspires you? I would not be where I am without the unwavering support and belief from my family and flatmates. They are the perfect example of determination, positivity, hard work and success. I feel extremely grateful to know and learn from them every day.
“I’m so unbelievably excited and honoured to have been selected to perform in the finals and represent LAMDA alongside Gavin and Brooke, and want to thank Nigel and Edward for this incredible opportunity. I also wanted to extend my thanks to my tutors at LAMDA who have been instrumental in this process, their knowledge and insight has meant so much.”
Madeleine Morgan (she/her)
Royal Academy of Music – MA Musical Theatre (one year)
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"Moments in the Woods" from Into the Woods
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"Running on Empty" from Mayflies by Gus Gowland
About me: I was born and raised in Gower, a beautiful peninsula in southwest Wales. My first memory of being on stage was at a very young age while attending a local nursery. My primary school also put on lots of performances for assemblies or special occasions, and I loved performing in them so much that I joined a Saturday morning youth theatre group. Following this, I was instantly hooked! We staged a variety of shows several times a year and I couldn’t get enough, although I think my first brush with fame was, aged seven, playing Orphan #3 in the group’s production of Annie Jr. Since then, I’ve moved on to take part in NYTW’s 2017 season and National Youth Music Theatre’s 2023 season. Although I decided to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Law after leaving school, I kept up with theatre societies throughout my time at university, and after graduating, I finally gave in to myself and auditioned for the Masters Course at the Royal Academy of Music. It was about time!
Sondheim experience: My first proper exposure to Sondheim came about while at university. The musical theatre society staged a production of Gypsy, in which I was cast as Louise. I was so fascinated by the intelligence and meaning behind each of his lyrics, and of course, the complexities and emotional range of his female characters that make them such a challenge and a joy to perform. Since then, I’ve been so lucky to have been cast as Mary in last year’s National Youth Music Theatre (NYMT) production of Merrily We Roll Along at the Southwark Playhouse Elephant. In 2023, I also performed in a V&A Museum masterclass on Sondheim’s work with the fabulous Jenna Russell. I’ve multi-roled as Samuel Byck and The Balladeer in RAM’s workshop production of Assassins, and I’m currently in rehearsals to appear as the Baker’s Wife in RAM’s summer production of Into The Woods. It’s a complete coincidence, although a very happy one, that I’ve so many Sondheim works on my graduate CV. Here’s hoping to many more!
Favourite Sondheim song: I love “Old Friends” from Merrily! I have so many happy memories of performing it last summer with NYMT. It always brings a smile to my face.
Favourite Sondheim show: Definitely Into The Woods right now – I’ve fully immersed myself in preparation for our RAM production! But I will always love Merrily We Roll Along and Sunday In The Park With George.
Dream role: Its verrry cheesy, but I just love to discover each new part as I get it, and make it my entire personality for the length of the show’s run.
Who most inspires you? On stage, Jenna Russell is such an inspiring performer. Her work, not solely in Sondheim theatre, but in any strong, emotionally complex female role, is so important and detailed, and has taught me an enormous amount about acting on pitch.
In life, my wonderful classmates at RAM have been such a source of inspiration since the course began last September. Having found connection in the company of like-minded individuals and witnessing their tenacity in pursuing what they truly love, I feel very lucky to have been a part of that community.
“I can’t even express how much this means to me. On my very first day at RAM, my wonderful singing teacher asked me about my goals for the year, and before the question had even left his lips, I blurted out ‘To get to the final of SSSSPOTY!’ I’m so grateful and excited for this opportunity. The girl who played Orphan #3 in Annie Jr is screaming right now.”
Rowen Newsome (he/him)
The Brighton Academy – BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (second year)
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"Being Alive" from Company
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"Esc/Enter" from Shift+Alt+Right by Hilmi Jaidin
About me: I was born and raised in Liverpool, in the North West. I absolutely love Liverpool, it’s so rich in culture and such a gorgeous city. I moved to Brighton almost two years ago to study musical theatre at TBA and love Brighton just as much.
I’ve always enjoyed singing. I used to sing along to my Grandad playing The Beatles on his guitar from as early as I can remember. I fell in love with musical theatre when I played Sky in Guys and Dolls at high school. I’ve been in a lot of panto, and performed in a few musicals back home – all of which I absolutely loved. There’s nothing like the buzz of live theatre.
Sondheim experience: My most recent experience with Sondheim’s work is Sweeney Todd, whom I’ll be playing in TBA’s upcoming production!
Favourite Sondheim song: I’ve always adored Sondheim – as many of us have – making it almost impossible to pick a favourite song. If I had to choose, it would definitely be “Losing My Mind” from Follies.
Favourite Sondheim show: It has to be Company!
Dream role: My dream role is Marius from Les Misérables. Bobby from Company is also definitely on the list, as is Bobby from Urinetown!
Who most inspires you? In a theatrical sense, it has to be Imelda Staunton. Imelda’s ability to tell a story with depth and emotion through a song is utterly breathtaking. She’s had a huge influence on the choices I make, and been a person I watch perform over and over whenever I need inspiration.
Truly, it’s my mum, she’s the strongest person I know and there’s no way I’d be where I am today if it weren’t for her.
“It means more than I could ever put into words. Knowing I’ll be performing on the Sondheim Theatre’s stage, alongside some immensely talented performers, is a crazy dream come true! It also means all of the hard work was worth it, which is an indescribable feeling. To be given this opportunity from such incredible people in our industry is an experience I’ll be forever grateful for.”
Tum Olufawo (she/her)
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School – BA Acting (third year)
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"Broadway Baby" from Follies
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"Press Hash to Re-Record" from Fiver by Alex James Ellison
About me: I’m from Erith in Kent. Singing and acting have always been a passion of mine. I grew up singing in the choir at my church, and that was really where I learnt everything I know about music. I was lucky to go to a secondary school that championed the arts and so was always part of dance and drama classes and took part in productions of both Oliver! and Hairspray.
After finishing school, I studied at Oxford University on the Politics and Philosophy course but also took part in student productions. One of them was a production of Medea, which centred around the voices of the Greek chorus with original music composed and directed by Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, who can now be seen playing Juliet opposite Tom Holland in Romeo and Juliet! Much to my parents' dismay, I left my Oxford degree and any hopes of being the next Prime Minister behind, and decided to pursue what I knew had been my passion all along. I’m so grateful to have got a place at Bristol and be working towards becoming the best storyteller I can be.
Sondheim experience: Unfortunately, I’ve never done any Sondheim shows before but really hope to in the future!
Favourite Sondheim song: “No One Is Alone” from Into the Woods.
Favourite Sondheim show: Into the Woods.
Dream role: I would love to play Angelica Schuyler in Hamilton… really, any of the Schuyler sisters – I’m not picky!
Who most inspires you? I’m most inspired by my parents. They remind me everyday that the sky is the limit and that the key to success is working hard and striving everyday to be a good person, no matter what life throws your way.
“It truly means the world to have been selected for the finals. Growing up, I didn’t have the means to really pursue musical theatre, and I’m not classically trained so I never ever thought this would be something I could achieve although it is something I’ve always wanted. Looking at past finalists like Cynthia Erivo – who is one of the most stellar performers I have ever seen – I feel really honoured to be able to say I will be performing on the same stage she did. I feel really really blessed and grateful to the judges for seeing something in me where others and even myself didn’t, and most importantly to God for this opportunity!”
Thomas Oxley (he/him)
Italia Conti – BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (third year)
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"Talent" from Road Show
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"My Day" from Fiver by Alex James Ellison
About me: I was born and raised in Hampshire. I was very lucky to be able to perform through my childhood. I really caught the theatre bug after playing Officer Pitman in a school production of Titanic, followed shortly by taking part in NYMT’s production of Legend Trippers. From that moment on, theatre became my whole life, so much that when I when I did an EPQ [Extended Project Qualification] at school, I found a way that meant I could write and perform a short musical instead of the usual essay!
When I left school, I was very lucky to go straight into training with a foundation year at the Guildford School of Acting, before making the short trip across Guildford to the BA course at Italia Conti.
Sondheim experience: As a kid, my first musical theatre experience was playing Rapunzel’s Prince in Cinderella. More recently, last year I was very lucky to be cast as Charley Kringas in National Youth Music Theatre’s production of Merrily We Roll Along. Along with this, I had the privilege of performing during the adjudication of last year’s SSSSPOTY competition, singing “Old Friends” and “Our Time”.
Favourite Sondheim song: Has to be “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” from Merrily We Roll Along.
Favourite Sondheim show: Real surprise here… Merrily We Roll Along!
Dream role: Kevin Price in The Book Of Mormon.
Who most inspires you? In terms of musical theatre, Ben Fankhauser has always been a huge inspiration to me – the sheer effortlessness of his voice is something that I will always aspire towards. Aside from that, my family has always been a huge support to me in chasing my dream, and telling them that I had been selected as one of the SSSSPOTY finalists will always be a really special memory.
“Being in the audience last year and watching a fellow Conti student Milly Willows win was so inspiring! So it is honestly an enormous honour to be returning this year as part of the competition. As well as this, Sondheim has been such a huge part of my theatre journey, so it is such a special way to finish training and take my first steps into the industry!”
Daisy Pearson (she/her)
Rose Bruford College – BA Actor-Musicianship (first year)
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"Stay With Me" from Into the Woods
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“The Botanical Garden Gate” from Game Theory by Rachel Bellman & Josh Bird
About me: I was born in High Wycombe, Bucks, and grew up in a small village nearby. I’ve been performing in one way or another for over 10 years. Through my local music centre, I learnt to sing and play a number of instruments, and have had many opportunities to perform in ensembles, orchestras and choirs at local, national and international venues – with experiences as varied as being a pit-band singer, a bassoon soloist at the Albert Hall and a lead in the opera Dido and Aeneas. I also took part in many school and community projects, performing in musicals including Sweeney Todd, Pippin, The Sound of Music and Oliver!
To expand and develop my performance techniques, I joined a local theatre school, enrolling in both Acting and Musical Theatre classes, as well as joining a Dance Academy for Ballet. This led to me being cast as Wednesday Addams in The Addams Family, partaking in showcases, and performing as a ballet dancer/ensemble member in The Ellen Kent Company operatic performances of Aida and La Bohème.
Sondheim experience: My first experience of Sondheim’s work was when I was 12. I was in a youth production of Sweeney Todd – the first proper musical I ever did! I found it absolutely fascinating how macabre yet comedic the show is, and it really cemented the fact that I wanted to follow acting and musical theatre as a career. I find the composition of the music to be absolute genius, for example the use of motifs like the Dies Irae throughout, and it inspires me greatly when composing my own music.
Favourite Sondheim song: “Losing My Mind” from Follies.
Favourite Sondheim show: Sweeney Todd.
Dream role: I would love to play Jane Doe from Ride the Cyclone [by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell, 2008].
Who most inspires you? Professionally, I am absolutely in awe of Cynthia Erivo. Having seen her perform live, she is completely enigmatic. In my personal life, I feel constantly inspired by my singing teacher, AJ Gibson, who has always supported me, encouraged me and challenged me over the many years that I have worked with her.
“Honestly, I am still in disbelief that I’ve made it to the final of such a prestigious and coveted competition. As a musical theatre enthusiast, to perform a Stephen Sondheim song on the stage of the Sondheim Theatre is a real dream come true and a moment I will cherish forever. I can’t believe I am following in the footsteps of some of my greatest musical theatre idols. Having the chance to perform in the West End, in front of so many important people, at only nineteen, is an incredibly exciting and rare opportunity – and one that I hope will lead to more prospects in the future. I am so grateful to The Stephen Sondheim Society for making this a reality for me and to all of those who have supported me in getting this far.”
Gavin Rasmusson (he/him)
LAMDA – MA Musical Theatre (one year)
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"Marry Me a Little" from Company
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"Tartarus" from The Sorrows of Satan by Luke Bateman & Michael Conley
About me: I was born in Washington D.C. and lived there for six years until moving to the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I am deeply in love with Pennsylvania’s natural beauty and am proud to be from the land of Philadelphia Cheesesteaks!
Performing has always been a coveted part of my identity. Whether it was forcing my sport-loving brothers to star in Rihanna dances with me as kids, or singing in the Philadelphia Boys Choir for eight years, I could not imagine doing anything else with my life. I grew up with an immense passion for singing and acting. This passion was nurtured by institutions such as The Broadway Dreams Foundation, Wolf Performing Arts Center, Boston Conservatory at Berklee College of Music, and now the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.
Throughout my 23 years on this earth, I’ve performed in numerous musicals, plays and cabarets… all of which have shaped me into the person I am today. I’m eternally grateful for the gift to have been able to perform as a child and that I continue to do so.
Sondheim experience: I’ve been “into the woods” three times now: twice as Jack, and most recently as Rapunzel’s Prince in Boston Conservatory’s production. Although the music sends me into a bit of a spiral, I would jump at the opportunity to be in it again.
Favourite Sondheim song: ”No More” from Into The Woods or “A Little Priest” from Sweeney Todd.
Favourite Sondheim show: Company.
Dream role: Emcee in Cabaret, Worker #5 (Hades cover) in Hadestown, Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors.
Who most inspires you? Lady Gaga. Her authenticity, creativity, passion and devotion to her art is something that is beyond inspiring. Aside from being an incredibly influential artist in my generation, she also is compassionate and cares for her fans and worldly issues. I aspire to be as multi-faceted as she is.
“Being offered this opportunity still feels very surreal. I am beyond grateful that I get to share my voice, perspective, and charisma onstage with so many other talented individuals. I hope I am able to make my friends, family, mentors, and Stephen Sondheim proud.”
Josh Rosewood (he/him)
Mountview – BA Performance (third year)
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"Finishing the Hat" from Sunday in the Park with George
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"Mr Right" from Thirtysomething by Verity Quade & Rob Archibald
About me: I was born in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. My love for performing began at age 10 with my first show, Bugsy Malone, which sparked my passion! In secondary school, an incredible performing arts department and motivating teachers inspired me to pursue musical theatre as a career. I began my full-time training at Conservatoire EAST, where I received “proper training.” During my time there, I was involved in shows such as Cabaret, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Zombie Prom and Some Enchanted Evening. Con EAST was linked to Suffolk Young People’s Theatre, which performed at the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds. We put on Made in Dagenham, Footloose and Legally Blonde. At 18, I started a Musical Theatre Foundation course at the Guildford School of Acting, auditioned throughout the year, and got into Mountview, which I loved instantly! In my third year, I participated in 9 to 5, She Loves Me and Sunday in the Park with George.
Sondheim experience: Sondheim experience: Sondheim’s work has been a consistent reference throughout my training. His intricate and considered writing has provided valuable insights into the relationship between music and text, highlighting the importance of vocal agility. In my final show at Mountview, I portrayed the title character in Sunday in the Park with George, which was transformative. Exploring George’s complex character allowed me to delve into the layers of emotion and nuance in Sondheim and Lapine’s piece, challenging me to expand my acting abilities. Sondheim’s work has profoundly impacted my approach to character development, leaving a permanent mark on my artistic journey.
Favourite Sondheim song: I don’t know how I could choose! “Colour and Light” is just incredible; the emotional journey of George and Dot throughout is beautifully reflected in the musicality, and the number gives an intriguing insight into the duo’s complex relationship. I also love “On the Steps of the Palace”. Again, I love the context and the character arc throughout!
Favourite Sondheim show: Other than my obvious choice… I would say my favourite two are Company and Sweeney Todd (I still can’t choose one!)
Dream role: I’d really love to play Clyde in Bonnie and Clyde!
Who most inspires you? Without a doubt, my year group. I find them incredibly inspiring for their unwavering dedication and work ethic, and their abundant love and support. Witnessing their determination and resilience fuels my own drive to excel. They embody the values and qualities I aspire to as I embark on my journey into the industry: kindness, collaboration, and commitment to excellence. Our admirable solidarity serve as a constant reminder of the power of community and the strength that comes from working together towards a common goal. In them, I see role models who inspire me to strive for greatness and to always extend a helping hand to those around me.
“It means the world to me to be selected as a finalist for SSSSPOTY 2024. It’s an opportunity to stand alongside exceptionally talented performers and showcase my abilities in front of esteemed industry professionals. Reflecting on this achievement makes me feel such gratitude and pride, especially when considering my journey from where it all began. I can’t even imagine the joy my younger self would feel witnessing this milestone!”
Meet the Reserves
Jacob Dolan Holmes (he/him)
Mountview – BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (third year)
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"Sunday in the Park with George" from Sunday in the Park with George
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"The 6.59" from The Station Master by Tim Connor
About me: I was born in Dublin, Ireland. I came to Musical Theatre and Acting quite late. For the majority of my life I only ever sang in school choir, as I got older my love for singing grew and I joined Dublin Youth Chamber Choir. When I was 16 I did my first musical at school, South Pacific, and then joined FYMT, a local youth group. Upon finishing secondary school I went on to train at the Royal Irish Academy of Music in Classical Voice and Opera and Phoenix Theatre Arts in Professional Dance and Musical Theatre before beginning my training at Mountview. A lot of my love for musical theatre comes from old movie musicals that I would watch on repeat for weeks.
Sondheim experience: I was first introduced to Sondheim when we sang "Sunday" with a local girls school for a charity concert when I was 15. Ever since I have enjoyed listening and singing his work.
Favourite Sondheim song: "On the Steps of the Palace" from Into the Woods.
Favourite Sondheim show: Into the Woods.
Dream role: The Wolf/Prince in Into the Woods!
Who most inspires you? My Dad has been a musician his whole life. He even admits he did not have the commercial success he once dreamed of. However, his love for music and his desire to create music for the rest of his life regardless of the outcome is what inspires me. Watching his struggle as an independent artist but never waiver on his passion gives me strength in my own passion to keep going as long as this profession brings me joy. My dad has always encouraged and inspired me to follow my own path.
"Sondheim is Musical Theatre at its best in my opinion. It has a complex musicality mixed with sophisticated level of acting. For someone who came to musical theatre quite late, it is a reminder that the hard work pays off. To be recognised as a reserve for my favourite musical theatre composer is a privilege. It is an opportunity to enjoy so many of my talented peers work and all learn from each other while celebrating one of the most important figures in musical theatre."
Noah Thallon (he/him)
Mountview – BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (third year)
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"Losing My Mind" from Follies
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"New York" from Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) by Jim Barne and Kit Buchan
About me: I was born and raised in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. I grew up in a large family with wonderful, supportive parents that constantly immersed me in music and the arts. Acting/ performing was something I loved from a very young age. My mother can always trace it back to when I was Perseus in a show when I was 7. That was then nurtured by fantastic teachers in my secondary school, who told me to pursue performing. I spent my teenage years at Trinity Youth Theatre, spending my Saturdays at Italia Conti Associates Tunbridge Wells, and immersing myself in the music department at school. In 2019, I went to ArtsEd Sixth Form, where I started to hone my craft on the BTEC MT course!
Sondheim experience: My love for Sondheim started to emerge during my time at ArtsEd. I studied him as part of the curriculum, and became obsessed with his work! At the conclusion of my training, I had the opportunity to play George in Sunday in the Park with George in my final third-year show. This was one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences I have had, and has given me a new found appreciation for his work and the characters/stories he crafts.
Favourite Sondheim song: “We Do Not Belong Together” seals the deal for me every single time.
Favourite Sondheim show: Company.
Dream role: The Emcee in Cabaret.
"Being a part of this competition is a great honour. After working on Sunday in the Park, I am thrilled to still be able to immerse myself in Sondheim and be a part of this celebration of his work."
Bonnie Langford
Bonnie has packed a wealth of experience in her outstanding career which has embraced success in theatre, television, film and radio in both Britain and America.
Most recently, Bonnie starred in Sondheim’s Old Friends at the Gielgud Theatre in London’s West End. She also, returned to her role of the doctors assistant, Melanie Bush in Doctor Who on BBCTV and Disney Plus worldwide.
West End theatre includes: Evangeline Harcourt in Anything Goes at the Barbican Theatre; Roz Keith in 9 to 5, The Musical (Savoy Theatre); Dorothy Brock in 42nd Street (Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and filmed for DVD and cinema release in the UK and Ireland, across America and streamed on Broadway HD and PBS America); Rumpleteaser in the Original London cast of Cats (The Gillian Lynne Theatre); Mabel and Kate in The Pirates Of Penzance (Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and London Palladium); Peter in Peter Pan - The Musical (Aldwych Theatre); Sally in Me And My Girl (Adelphi Theatre); Charity in Sweet Charity (Victoria Palace Theatre); The Lady of the Lake in Spamalot (Harold Pinter Theatre and Playhouse Theatre); Muriel in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (Savoy Theatre) and Roxie Hart in Chicago (Adelphi Theatre, Cambridge Theatre and on Broadway).
She made her theatre debut in the West End at the tender age of seven in Gone with the Wind at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. The following year she played ‘Baby June’ in Gypsy opposite Angela Lansbury at the Piccadilly Theatre, making such an impact that the producers took her to America with the show for a highly successful run on Broadway. For this performance, at the age of ten, Bonnie was nominated for a Drama Desk Award.
UK tours include: 42nd Street; Charlie Girl; Oklahoma!; Guys and Dolls; Fosse; Spamalot; 9 to 5, The Musical; Anything Goes and numerous Royal Variety Performances and Royal Galas.
Meet the Host
