LONDON & NEW YORK CITY: After 163 years as a leading theatrical and performing arts training operation, the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA) has announced the opening of new offices and studio facilities in New York City. LAMDA NYC will officially open on Jan. 23, 2025.
Supported through a new partnership with A.R.T./New York, the Manhattan building will host a range of activities to bolster the London drama school’s international activity. With a permanent office and flexible rehearsal studio spaces, LAMDA will use its new Midtown location to host New York auditions and run a suite of short courses and master classes, providing a dynamic space for aspiring and professional actors to hone their skills in the heart of New York’s theatre district.
“We are very excited to open our doors in New York City,” said professor Mark O’Thomas, principal and CEO of LAMDA, in a statement. “This expansion reinforces our commitment to making an impact on a global scale by providing support, resources and opportunities to aspiring creatives. We look forward to welcoming new students and strengthening ties with our US-based alumni network.”
LAMDA has a long-standing history with the United States through its extensive alumni network and its partnership with the Fulbright commission, a prestigious scholarship program that brings one acting student to LAMDA each year. The academy also welcomes many U.S. students to its undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses, as well as its semester and summer school options. This expansion into New York City marks a significant milestone for LAMDA, enabling the conservatoire to gain a permanent U.S. presence. Dr. Nicholas Holden, LAMDA’s head of academic affairs and research, will oversee the school’s expansion into New York.
“This is a hugely exciting time for LAMDA, representing an ambitious vision to offer our training to more people around the world,” said Holden in a statement. “We are delighted to be working with A.R.T New York as we open our office in Manhattan and use their studio facilities to bring aspects of our training program to the USA.”
LAMDA is the oldest drama school in the United Kingdom and a pioneering conservatoire offering exceptional vocational training through full-time and short courses, as well as an examinations provider offering qualifications in communication and performance. In 2024, LAMDA was ranked number one in The Guardian’s U.K. Universities Guide for Drama and Dance and as one of the top 10 drama schools in the world by The Hollywood Reporter.
