BSEODS loves to support young performers. Since 1990 the Society has made a cash award annually to a young person who is about to embark on a full-time course in the performing arts.
The history of the award: The Alan Holt Award (first offered in 1990) was established in memory a past President and Chairman of the Society who died in 1987. The award was set up in co-operation with his wife Margaret Holt, a past President of the Society, who continued the award in Alan's name. With Margaret sadly passing away in 2019, the award was renamed The Holt Award - in lasting tribute to this wonderful couple. Both former Society Presidents, Alan and Margaret Holt, worked extensively in education, helping young people in the local area. In the following years BSEODS continued to fund the award, and supported some incredibly talented individuals pursuing their next theatrical steps. In 2024 BSEODS received the kind offer from the family of Jane Rutherford to fund the next 10 years of the award. The Rutherford-Holt Award now also commemorates Jane Rutherford, a long standing member of BSEODS for over 20 years until her untimely death from a brain haemorrhage in 2012. Nigel Smith, Stuart Smith & Kat Metcalfe (nee Smith), are thrilled to be continuing a cause she was passionate about for members of the society that meant so much to her.
Each year the sum of £150 is awarded to a young person about to attend a full-time performing arts course, to assist with the purchase of books, music or other necessary items.
An applicant must write in their own words (about one A4 page) saying how they will benefit from the award, giving some information about themselves and what they have accomplished in the performing arts to date.
Full details of eligibility & how to apply can be found by contacting BSEODS: [email protected]
