Celebrated actress Laura Elphinstone has received recognition from the University of Sunderland.
- Known for her role in ITV’s ‘Grace’, Laura has been honoured with an Honorary Doctorate of Arts.
- Laura’s roots trace back to Sunderland, where she was involved in amateur theatre.
- Her career spans acclaimed theatre productions and notable television series such as ‘Game of Thrones’.
- Laura remains connected to her hometown, supporting local arts initiatives.
Laura Elphinstone, a distinguished actress famed for her role in the ITV drama ‘Grace’, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Arts by the University of Sunderland. This accolade highlights her significant contributions to the arts and her strong connections to Sunderland, where she was raised and first nurtured her passion for acting.
Born in South Shields in 1982 and growing up in Sunderland, Laura was immersed in amateur theatre, influenced by her parents who were active in the local theatre scene. Her early performances at the Royalty Theatre and The Sunderland Amateur Operatic Society laid the foundation for her successful career.
Furthering her passion for the arts, Laura pursued a BTEC National Diploma of Performing Arts at Newcastle College. In 2001, she relocated to London to refine her craft at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where she honed the skills that would later define her acting career.
Laura made her professional stage debut in the play ‘Country Music’ at the Royal Court Theatre in 2004. Her performance brought a slice of Sunderland to the West End, playing the character Emma, a Wearside-born daughter. She has since graced numerous theatres, with significant roles in The Royal Shakespeare Company’s ‘The White Devil’ in 2014 and the National Theatre’s ‘Jane Eyre’ in 2015.
Apart from theatre, Laura’s career has flourished on the screen. Her television debut came in 2008 with the BBC’s adaptation of ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’. She has since appeared in several high-profile TV series such as ‘Game of Thrones’, expressing her versatility across various demanding roles.
Laura’s film work includes appearances in ‘Military Wives Choir’ and ‘Peterloo’, showcasing her range as an actress. Recently, she completed filming the fifth series of ITV’s ‘Grace’, continuing her role as DS Bella Moy.
Though Laura is now based in London, she maintains a strong connection to Sunderland, frequently supporting local arts programs. She expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the honorary degree bestowed upon her, stating her deep emotional connection to the city and the Stadium of Light, a place of her early work experiences.
The honorary degree was awarded during the University’s winter graduation ceremony at the Stadium of Light, attended by her family, underscoring the personal significance of the occasion.
Laura Elphinstone’s recognition marks a celebration of her artistic achievements and enduring bond with Sunderland.
