Sarah Preston is an English actress, writer and producer. She is known for her television roles as Karen Newburn in the BBC medical drama Holby City, Amanda Parry in EastEnders, and the recurring Make-up Woman in the BBC comedy Extras. She has also appeared in In Deep, Steel River Blues, Vera, The Last Detective, Where the Heart Is and Doctors. Preston trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), graduating with a diploma in acting in 1994, and is the founder of the North East-based television and film production company Bamboo Media Productions.
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Early life and training
Preston grew up in the North East of England and began acting on stage at the age of five. Her early experience included productions with Stockton Youth Theatre, where she appeared in Cabaret, Jesus Christ Superstar and Sweet Charity alongside Mark Benton and Marcus Bentley.
She later moved to London to train for three years at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), graduating with a diploma in acting. While at RADA, Preston trained in stage fighting and received the John Barton Prize.
Acting career
One of Preston's early film roles was as Meg in The House of Angelo, in which she also worked as a fight double.
Her first major television role was as Karen Newburn, a ward sister in the BBC medical drama Holby City. Preston appeared as a series regular during the programme's first two series, with storylines including Karen's relationship with her former husband Nick Jordan, played by Michael French.
Her other television roles include appearances in EastEnders, In Deep, Steel River Blues and Extras, as well as guest roles in Vera, The Last Detective, Where the Heart Is and Doctors.
Writing and production
Preston founded Bamboo Media Productions, a North East-based television and film production company focused on developing high-end television and film projects. The company has participated in Creative UK's North East Create Growth Programme.