West Lothian student receives rising talent award from actress Elaine C Smith

West Lothian student, Eva MacCallum, has been honoured with the inaugural Elaine C Smith Award and a prize of £500 from New College Lanarkshire. The award, established by acclaimed actress Elaine C Smith and New College Lanarkshire, is presented to a female student in the Performing Arts department who demonstrates exceptional talent in comedy. Hailing from Livingston, Eva expressed her gratitude at the college’s Motherwell campus, emphasising the importance of women creating opportunities for other women to succeed in the spotlight.

Since graduating with a degree in Performing Arts earlier this year, Eva has showcased her talents in Bathgate’s Reconnect Theatre’s production of Macbeth at the Edinburgh festival and is currently involved in filming a TV series. Reflecting on her experience at New College Lanarkshire, Eva highlighted the invaluable connections she made with fellow students and lecturers, noting the strong sense of community at the college.

Elaine C Smith, known for her acting prowess, presented Eva with the award and underscored her motivation behind establishing it. Growing up in Newarthill, Elaine shared her own journey of disbelief in seeing people like her succeed in acting roles. She aimed to pave the way for young women from working-class backgrounds to pursue careers in the arts, leaving a trail of encouragement for future generations.

The Elaine C Smith Award serves as a testament to the power of mentorship and representation in the arts industry, empowering aspiring performers to carve their paths and challenge stereotypes. Eva’s recognition not only celebrates her individual talent but also symbolises a beacon of hope and opportunity for young women aspiring to make their mark in the world of comedy and performance.

This initiative by Elaine C Smith not only recognises talent but also advocates for inclusivity and diversity in the arts, setting a precedent for supporting underrepresented voices and fostering a more inclusive creative landscape. Eva’s journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists, highlighting the transformative impact of mentorship and recognition in empowering individuals to pursue their dreams and break barriers in the industry.