Blackpool-born Abbie Lasledj honoured with Tony Warren Bursary.
- Lasledj attends Manchester Metropolitan University to pursue acting.
- Her passion for acting began in primary school productions.
- The bursary provides crucial financial support for drama studies.
- Tony Warren envisioned the bursary for disadvantaged local actors.
In a significant recognition of her talent, Abbie Lasledj from Blackpool has been awarded the Tony Warren Bursary. This prestigious award is designed to support promising local actors in their pursuit of drama education. Lasledj is currently studying for her BA (Hons) in Acting at the Manchester School of Theatre, which is part of Manchester Metropolitan University.
Lasledj shared that her love for acting was evident from a young age, with memories of performing in school plays. She distinctly recalls being the only student not allowed to use the microphone during a Christmas nativity play because her voice was ‘too loud’.
The financial aid from the bursary is particularly valuable to Lasledj, who noted that the support is life-changing. Drama school is known for its demanding nature, and as a mature student with additional responsibilities, the financial relief allows her to focus more on her studies without the stress of balancing work and education.
Gennie Radcliffe, an ITV Casting Director, praised Lasledj for her outstanding audition performance. She noted Lasledj’s excellent comic timing and ability to bring deep emotion to her roles. Radcliffe expressed confidence that Tony Warren himself would have approved of the selection, remarking on Lasledj’s natural fit within the world of ‘Coronation Street’.
This bursary aligns with the late Tony Warren’s vision. As a former actor and the creator of ‘Coronation Street’, Warren was passionate about nurturing local talent, especially those facing financial and social barriers. This commitment was solidified when he proposed the establishment of a bursary to aid aspiring drama school students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Abbie Lasledj’s receipt of the Tony Warren Bursary marks a promising step in her acting career.
