Help Henry get to London to study at LAMDA
Wellington
Kia ora,
My name is Henry Ashby, and after many years working professionally in musical theatre and live performance in New Zealand, I have been offered a place in the MA Musical Theatre programme at London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art in London.
LAMDA is one of the world's most respected and competitive drama schools, and this is a once in a lifetime opportunity which has the potential to completely transform my career as a performer, musician, and storyteller, allowing me to begin a career on the West End, a dream I've had for my whole life.
The challenge is that accepting this place comes with significant costs. Tuition, flights, visa expenses, relocation, accommodation, and the practical realities of moving to London create a financial hurdle that I cannot overcome alone.
The cost of tuition is £29,758 GBP - which currently converts to $68,078.06 NZD.
Throughout my career I have been incredibly fortunate to perform with outstanding artists and companies across Aotearoa, and to be supported by a wonderful community of friends, family, audiences, and fellow creatives. I'm now asking for that community's help in taking this next step.
Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward helping me take up my place at LAMDA and continue representing New Zealand artists on an international stage.
If you're unable to contribute financially, sharing this page with others would mean just as much.
Thank you for believing in me and supporting this journey.
Ngā mihi,
Henry Ashby
Funds will help cover LAMDA tuition fees, visa costs, flights, accommodation, relocation expenses, and essential living costs while studying in London.
14k!!! New Closing Date! 3 August 2026
I wanted to share a little update as things are starting to feel incredibly real.
In just under three weeks, I'll be boarding a flight to London to begin my MA in Musical Theatre at LAMDA. It still feels surreal to write those words.
Since my last update, I've been busy preparing for the move, organising visas, securing accommodation, and getting everything in place for what will be one of the biggest adventures of my life. It's been equal parts exciting and overwhelming!
Thanks to your incredible generosity, we've now raised over $14,000, which absolutely blows me away. Every donation has helped me get one step closer to making this dream a reality.
I've also decided to extend the campaign until 21 August, just before I leave for London. I have two final fundraising events coming up, and I wanted to make sure everyone who attends has the chance to support the campaign if they'd like. This will be the final opportunity to contribute before I head overseas.
Thank you doesn't even begin to cover how grateful I am. This journey has reminded me how incredibly lucky I am to be surrounded by such a generous, encouraging community.
Thanks so much for your generous donation!!!
Thank you so much Jane - Your kindness and generosity is so incredibly meaningful!
Thanks so much! So much love for you and the whanau! This donation is incredibly meaningful!
Thanks my amazing friends!!!
Thanks so much!!!
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