Emmy, Tony and Grammy winner Cynthia Erivo has been appointed Artist in Residence: Tutor in Vocal Practice at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), where she will work directly with acting students to enhance their vocal skills.

Cynthia Erivo, who trained at RADA, will take on a newly created role focused on contemporary vocal technique, stylistic interpretation, industry standards and professional development. Her appointment marks a deepening relationship with the academy, where she has led singing masterclasses since 2015 and served as Vice President since 2024.

As part of her residency, Erivo will lead an annual week-long masterclass for third-year students at RADA. The programme aims to support individual artistic growth and broaden the scope of the academy’s vocal training for actors.

RADA is notable among UK drama conservatoires for offering weekly one-to-one singing tuition across all three years of its BA Acting course. This sets it apart in how it integrates vocal development throughout actor training.

Erivo emphasised the importance of storytelling through song, saying her role as a mentor is to help students find their unique voice and bring forth what they can offer to the world. She expressed excitement about shaping RADA’s future training in vocal practice.

The appointment reflects RADA’s commitment to evolving professional actor preparation by incorporating contemporary industry expertise and enhancing students’ vocal versatility.