Over 70 drama schools and universities were invited to nominate a student to submit a self-taped audition for this year’s prize. The 22 finalists were then selected by a panel of industry experts.

For his audition tape, Alfanso performed a monologue from the 2019 National Theatre play ‘Small Island’, which is partially set in Jamaica, where he is from.

I could feel the emotion in every word, which allowed me to tell the story truthfully,”

Alfanso explained.

Dr Isla Hall, Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for BA (Hons) Acting, said:

We are thrilled that Alfanso has been chosen as a finalist for this extremely competitive prize.

We are blessed with a fantastic group of graduating actors, but we felt he was ideally placed to excel in this because of his versatility and castability, as well as how conscientious and hard working he is."

Alfanso added:

This is a very proud and joyful moment for me and everyone who has helped me get to this point.

My degree taught me so much. It was an exploration and I had to dig deep and find myself. I am going to keep auditioning and applying for projects. My dream is to win an Oscar.”

For his screen entry, Alfanso will perform a piece from the 2000 romantic comedy ‘100 Girls’. For his stage entry, his piece is from the 2021 play ‘For black boys who have considered suicide when the hue gets too heavy’, a meditation on black masculinity.

The nominees and winners of past Spotlight Prize showcases include Gwendoline Christie, Sam Heughhan, Jodie Whittaker, Faye Marsay, Ben Whishaw, Edward Bluemel, Joel Fry, Bessie Carter, Laura Donnelly, Jacob Fortune-Lloyd, Rosalind Eleazar and Gabrielle Creevy.

Spotlight is an online directory that connects performers with roles in theatre, television and film, one for stage and one for screen.

Huge congratulations Alfanso and good luck on 17 July!

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