A rising star from St Albans has earned recognition on the national stage.
Rosie Sutton, a former student of Brilliant Theatre Academy, was awarded third place at the 2026 Stephen Sondheim Society Student Performer of the Year Competition, winning the inaugural Jeremy Chapman Prize.
David Jenkins, founder of Brilliant Theatre Academy, said: "We are absolutely thrilled for Rosie.
"To be recognised at the Stephen Sondheim Society Student Performer of the Year Competition is an incredible achievement and thoroughly deserved.
"Rosie has always combined talent with hard work, commitment and a genuine love for her craft.
"What makes this success particularly special is that Rosie began her journey with us through part-time training while balancing school and other commitments.
"Her achievement demonstrates what can happen when talented young people are given the right opportunities, support and encouragement to develop their skills over time.
"Everyone at Brilliant is immensely proud of her, and we look forward to following the next chapter of what we are sure will be a very exciting career."
Regarded as one of the most prestigious musical theatre competitions in the UK, this year’s event drew more than 350 applicants from drama schools, conservatoires and universities nationwide.
Just 12 performers were selected for the final.
Rosie trained for several years with Brilliant Theatre Academy and was recognised alongside finalists from some of the UK’s top performing arts institutions.
During her time at the academy, she took part in weekly performing arts classes, summer productions and the company’s project for the 2021 National Theatre Connections Festival.
She later studied music at the University of Oxford, where she continues to develop as both a musician and performer.
In the official competition programme, Rosie said: "I attended weekly performing arts training with Brilliant Theatre Arts in St Albans and performed in their intensively rehearsed summer musicals and in their contribution to the 2021 National Theatre Connections Festival.
"I'm extremely indebted to the support, training and opportunities they offered me."
Brilliant Theatre Academy offers professional theatre training for young people aged seven to 19.
Its programmes include weekly classes, full-scale productions and intensive performance projects, all designed to build technical skills and confidence through practical, hands-on experience.
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