Kiara Kiandra

Subjects studied at Holy Cross:

Drama and Theatre Studies, Music Technology, Law

(2017-2019) 

Early in 2025, Kiara became the first recipient of the ITV Tony Warren Bursary to go on and join the cast of Coronation Street. 

The Tony Warren bursary was created in recognition of Tony Warren’s contribution to ground-breaking British television and creative writing, which helped put Greater Manchester on the cultural map.  

The bursary aims to not only to foster acting talent from the North West, but also to provide financial means to eligible recipients from underrepresented backgrounds, allowing them to support themselves throughout their acting training. 

Kiara was supported every step of the way to drama school by Holy Cross staff. She was accepted into four different drama schools before choosing to enrol at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). 

She said: “Without Holy Cross, I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing now – I recommend this college to anyone, it’s amazing. 

“I was shocked at how difficult it was to get into drama school. I remember contacting Jennie (Fairclough, Curriculum Leader for Performing Arts) about it and asking for help with my auditioning – I ended up getting into four different drama schools.  

“I received a scholarship for LAMDA thanks to the Tony Warren bursary – the Casting Director told me I was the first bursary award winner to actually be in Coronation Street. It all felt right and very fitting. 

“I loved doing Drama here, it was an amazing course and I really grew in confidence. It makes you come out of your shell, and I gained lifelong friends from that course. I met amazing teachers, and we still keep in touch. 

“This is the best place for you to ask for help and learn who you are as a person.”