Andrew Dawson (actor)

Andrew Dawson (born Chase Sebastian 30 March) is an English film, theatre and television actor who is best known for his leading theatre roles.

Career

Dawson began acting with the King's Theatre and landed his first film role in the mid 2000s alongside up and coming director Timothy Reynard. After impressing critics he has starred in other films directed by Reynard, Pat Kelman (My Hero) and Richard Wood.

Best known for his versatility, Dawson was cast as west country social misfit "Wes" in the brand new and risqué comedy "Mate" at the Theatre Royal Bath and was excellently received. This recognition looks set to continue at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival where Dawson will display his most challenging role to date, a homosexual recluse.

One online review describes Dawson as "the potential future for British film" after his engaging performance as Alexander Manning in the complicated thriller "Denied". Although the film was not granted general release, Dawson won fans within the independent film market after his debut feature. Nevertheless, by his own admission, he "could have done a lot more" with the character.

Early Life

Dawson was born in Gloucestershire, South West England, son to civil servants Lesley and Nick. He and his sister Eleanor grew up in Highnam, a village bordering Gloucester City Centre and The Royal Forest of Dean and was Educated at Highnam C of E Primary School, Highnam, before attending Newent School and finally The King's School Gloucester. He developed an interest in acting after a soccer injury cut short what looked to be a promising career at a high level of the English game. He joined the drama club initially "as a dare" but found himself falling in love with acting leaving behind the sporting credentials of representative rugby, golf, athletics and soccer.

After focusing his attentions to acting, Dawson found school difficult. Initially taken on by The King's School as a sporting scholar he was threatened with expulsion after he refused to participate in weekend fixtures opting instead for drama rehearsals. With the support of a limited number of staff who recognised his ability, he was allowed to finish the school musical. Subsequently he quit after his exams and did not attend graduation or his prom.

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