The Sunday Mail
Society Reporter
NIGEL Muraurwa’s dream to move to a United States-based film school early next year is hanging in the balance.
The 18-year-old budding actor recently received a partial scholarship to pursue his acting studies at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA).
AMDA, which is home to Jason Derulo, Christopher Jackson, Caisse Levy among other renowned artistes, believes the young and upcoming Zimbabwean actor has great potential.
“Out of thousands of applicants from around the world, the admission committee has great confidence in your potential. We accept students who are serious, committed and demonstrate a passion for reaching their goals. You should be very proud of this accomplishment.
‘Our students leave AMDA well-rounded and eager to enter the workforce with confidence. We are excited for you to begin blazing your trail in the entertainment capital world,” reads the admission letter sent to Muraurwa by Jonathan Juarbe, AMDA director of admissions.
However, there is a hiccup.
The partial sponsorship is valued to the tune of US$16 000 and Muraurwa’s full course requires a total payment of US$43 000.
Raising the difference is proving to be a mammoth task for the aspiring Chitungwiza-born actor. The balance has to be paid before the end of December.
“I was awarded a merit-based scholarship of US$ 6 000 and an additional scholarship of US$10 000. But the total cost of study including other expenses, transport and accommodation included, is adding up to about US$50 000.
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“We have tried to apply for a bank loan in the USA to cover up the remaining balance but nothing has materialised thus far hence I am appealing to well-wishers for assistance. I am looking for a loan which I will repay,” he said.
Muraurwa was admitted at AMDA for a Certificate in The Studio Conservatory (Acting for Stage, Film and TV).
There is an option for him to pursue studies in a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree after the completion of the certificate.
“It has always been my dream to pursue acting studies abroad and when I was accepted at AMDA, I felt the heavens opening up. But, my dream and hope of studying at the leading film school is fast fading. It is on the brink of being shattered as I am failing to raise the required balance for the scholarship, which is needed before year-end,” said the visibly troubled actor.
Muraurwa started his acting career at Morgan High School in Harare after joining the school’s drama club.
He has always wanted to be a screenplay writer after being inspired by the likes of Jace Norman and Zenday.
“I have always loved writing and my childhood dream has always been to be a screenplay writer. I felt that acting in the school drama club would allow me to lay my foundation as I looked for a school to pursue my dream and the AMDA opportunity is a big thing for me.”
AMDA has been recognised throughout the industry for its rich history and tradition of launching some of the most successful careers in theatre, film, television and new media.
