Could you be a star-maker? On March 12, the finest in British talent across the arts will gather in London for the annual South Bank Sky Arts Awards, and from today, Times readers can vote for the most promising young artist of the past year. Chosen by Times critics, the nominees for The Times South Bank Breakthrough Award come from across the arts spectrum, from literature to dance, theatre to pop music. Last year’s winner, the soprano Sophie Bevan, makes her Royal Opera House debut in May.

Our critics defend their nominations below — but who will win? That’s up to you. Read the profiles below, then click the tab above to vote.

1 Books: Rachel Joyce

In late 2011 I picked up the proof