Laura Jennifer Banks

I’m Laura (she/they) and I’m a northern Actor, born in Hull, passionate about regional theatre, northern stories and music lead projects. I’ve been the singer/songwriter for my band for the past 5 years, producing my own experimental music and play acoustic and electric guitar alongside this. My musical influences include, Cocteau Twins, apex twin (not related) and songwriters such as PJ Harvey, Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell. Theatre that really excites me, is writing which incorporates the power of words and song. Productions I’ve enjoyed recently are, London Tide (NT), Cold War (Almeida) and Passing Strange.

During my last month at BOVTS, I’ve been involved in a couple of R&Ds for new work, acting but also writing and producing music. For example, Stag by Maddie Farnhill and directed by Natalie Simone at The Bristol Old Vic. I also wrote and produced music for my last BOVTS show, Jez Butterworth’s The River.

I am currently writing a one act play that incorporates my music as well.

I will be moving to London after finishing my tour with the John Godber Company

Credits

Cinderella, Into The Woods, The Redgrave Theatre, 2 weeks. 2023

The Other Woman, The River, The Wardrobe Theatre, 4 nights. 2024 (music written, produced and performed by me)

Deerstalker, Stag, R&D, The Bristol Old Vic, 2024
(Music performed and produced by me)

Steph, Perfect Pitch, John Godber Company, UK Tour, 9 weeks, 2024

Training

Full Time Musical Theatre Foundation Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts 2018-2019

BA Acting The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School 2021-2024