Cynthia Erivo appointed artist in residence at RADA

Stage and screen star Cynthia Erivo has been appointed Artist in Residence: Tutor in Vocal Practice at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA).

The Emmy, Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer, who trained at the academy, will work directly with students as part of the newly created role. Her work will focus on contemporary vocal technique, stylistic and interpretative practice, industry standards and professional development.

As part of the residency, Erivo will lead an annual week-long masterclass for third-year students. The programme is designed to support individual artistic development and expand RADA’s vocal training provision for actors.

Erivo has been involved with the academy for a number of years, leading singing masterclasses since 2015 and serving as Vice President since 2024.

Speaking about the role, Erivo said: “To tell stories through song is to be fearless. As a teacher and mentor, my role is to bring out what each individual has inside, helping find the depth of what they can offer to the world. I am excited to shape the way we approach this in RADA’s future training.”

RADA is one of a small number of conservatoires that offers weekly one-to-one singing tuition throughout all three years of its BA Acting programme.