Oscar-nominated actress Wunmi Mosaku has opened up about her difficult journey at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), revealing that her time at the prestigious institution was marked by isolation and adversity. As she garners acclaim for her role in Ryan Coogler’s vampire thriller *Sinners*, Mosaku’s candid recollections highlight the broader issues surrounding representation and mental well-being in performing arts education.
A Tough Journey at RADA
Enrolling at RADA in 2004, Mosaku found herself as the only Black female student in her cohort, a reality that significantly contributed to her sense of alienation. Speaking to *The Times*, the 39-year-old actress shared, “I didn’t really enjoy my time there.” She described how her Manchester accent became a target for ridicule, and lamented the lack of opportunities for roles during her studies. “It felt isolating,” she added, illustrating the emotional toll of her experiences.
Mosaku’s financial struggles were compounded by her need to return home every weekend, using her student loans to cover travel costs. “I found it very difficult. It was my first time away from home,” she explained. Her frustrations extended to the curriculum itself; rather than the expected focus on classical works like Shakespeare, she recounted a peculiar exercise involving a membership to London Zoo, where students were tasked with observing animals as a means of enhancing their acting skills. “I thought, ‘What am I doing? I cannot be getting into debt for this,’” she said, questioning the pedagogical approach she encountered.
Voices of Discontent
Mosaku is not the only graduate to voice dissatisfaction with RADA. Daisy May Cooper, the star of *This Country*, has previously characterised her own time at the institution as traumatic. Cooper described an environment rife with bullying, citing a “tyrannical teacher” who constantly undermined her abilities, leaving her feeling terrified and ostracised by peers. “It was unbelievably stressful – 15-hour days where you were just told how s*** you were,” she recalled, shedding light on the toxic atmosphere that can permeate elite drama schools.
In response to Cooper’s comments, a RADA representative expressed regret over her experiences, emphasising that such behaviour is not tolerated within their current teaching framework. “The well-being of our students is critical to us,” they stated, highlighting an ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive environment.
Celebrating Progress and Acknowledging Struggles
Despite the challenges faced during her education, Mosaku’s achievements in the industry are commendable. She has garnered a nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in *Sinners*, competing against notable talents such as Teyana Taylor and Elle Fanning. The awards ceremony is slated for 15 March, and her recognition underscores her resilience and talent in an industry that can often marginalise voices like hers.
Mosaku has previously credited her mother for the sacrifices made to support her aspirations, recalling how her mother encouraged her to pursue her dreams despite the risks. “She really took a risk,” Mosaku remarked, illustrating the importance of family support in navigating the often tumultuous landscape of acting.
Why it Matters
Mosaku’s revelations about her time at RADA resonate deeply within the ongoing discourse around inclusivity and mental health in the arts. Her story serves as a reminder of the barriers faced by underrepresented individuals in prestigious educational settings and the urgent need for systemic change. By shedding light on these experiences, Mosaku not only advocates for future generations of performers but also highlights the importance of fostering a more equitable and supportive environment in the creative industries. As her star continues to rise, her journey offers hope and inspiration to aspiring actors everywhere, demonstrating that perseverance can lead to recognition and success, despite the odds.
