On Friday afternoon (10 April 2026), I joined the WordSong team at the Concert Artistes’ Association in London to support the final of the CAA Actors’ Prize. As luck would have it, I was also able to observe some of the preliminary round during the previous day, so I was aware there had been a terrific response to this years’ competition and the standard of performance from a mixed group of undergraduate and postgraduate conservatoire students was extremely high. I also noted that, by being able to offer some financial support with expenses this year, WordSong had been able to remove barriers for some students and increase access to the competition to those studying far and wide across the country, who otherwise might not have been able to afford to compete.

The prestigious judging panel of Nicola Blackman, Abi Eniola and Geoffrey Aymer brought a wealth of industry and performance experience and genuinely had a tough job selecting the prize winners.

From my perspective, it was a wonderful afternoon of rich and varied high-calibre performances, celebrating the range of texts and storytelling available to us in the English language. The young performers all made brave and bold choices in their selection and compilation of text, reflecting a confidence that their unique and culturally diverse stories and voices would be heard – and celebrated.

It has never been a more important time for us to support and encourage young and emerging talent in the creative fields. I am proud to have joined the team of trustees at WordSong and very much look forward to how we continue to evolve and be relevant and valuable to those who, undoubtedly, need us the most.

Wendy Gadian | WordSong Trustee
14/04/2026