The winner of the first Irish Times ESB Theatre Award Bursary, worth £5,000, is 24-year-old Keith Dunphy (pictured left) from Waterford. Keith is currently in his second year of a three-year acting diploma course at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.

Keith has been involved in theatre since 1990, and worked in several productions with Red Kettle Theatre Company, Waterford, including The Black Pool, The Crucible and Petty Sessions. Prior to joining RADA, Keith also trained with the Irish Youth Dance Theatre and the Moscow State Arts school, as well as the Open House Workshop for actors. When he completes his course, Keith plans to continue working in theatre, either in London or at home in Ireland.