For the first time in The National Drama School’s history, we are excited to offer the inaugural Adrian Gibson Scholarship, which will cover the full two years of tuition fees for one student enrolling in the full time Advanced Diploma of Acting in 2024.

The scholarship recipient will be identified through application and audition and awarded based on talent. First Nations and gender diverse people are encouraged to apply. Students wishing to apply for the Adrian Gibson Scholarship will be able to submit an application following receipt of an offer to enrol in the Advanced Diploma.

The National Drama School is deeply grateful to the family of the late Adrian Gibson OAM for investing in students of the performing arts through this generous scholarship.

About Adrian Gibson OAM

In May 1972 Adrian Gibson joined the Board of the National, taking on the position of Chair in 1978, retiring in 2011.

Frank Van Straten OAM, author of National Treasure, which traced the history of the National Theatre Movement, says:

Adrian Gibson’s knowledge of the Australian Arts scene and the National’s unique place in it, is incomparable. His remarkable thirty-year chairmanship was characterised by inclusiveness, innovation, pragmatism and probity. His gentle, urbane manner helped soothe even the most volatile artistic sensibilities and he earned the respect of all his Board members and of the theatre’s diverse staff – from general managers and teachers to rehearsal pianists and cleaners.