Having studied a three year honours degree in Theatre and Performance Design, I have had practical and hypothetical experience of all areas of the subject working through the roles within set, lighting and costume design from maker to designer and everything in-between. As a producing house with over 5 public performance spaces, each show, which is student lead, incorporates all areas of professional practice, allowing students to experience the role first hand with the support of peers and guidance of tutors. Working alongside my studies on over 3 shows a year has allowed me to apply my knowledge and skills and gain first hand experience of each role involved in the design and making of performance.
Since graduating I have worked predominantly within regional touring theatre, recieving a vast range of West End touring productions, notably Disney’s ‘The Lion King’, Matthew Bourne’s ‘Swan Lake’ and Cameron Mackintosh’s ‘Les Miserables’. Gaining first hand experience on such prolific productions has made every day a new challange. I love seeing each production through from loading in and building scenery to assisting in the costume department from dressing to running repairs. Having an understanding of each department and how they all come together to form the whole picture has been really eyeopeing and informative. I always sieze every oportunity to ask questions of the touring companies about how everything operates and comes together to form the show.
Alongside this work I have also worked on several freelance projects, mostly for Phoenix Dance Theatre in Leeds where I have had the oportunity to use my interdepartmental skills to work as a Wardrobe Assistant, Assistant Stage Manager and general Crew. This ability to bridge departments has proved invaluable as I am able to turn my hand to assist any member of the team wherever needed, building and reupholstering props one minute and focusing lighting the next.
During my free time I like to keep busy with a range of creative projects and commissions. This allows me to put keep my creativity flowing expanding upon my skills learnt throughout my work and study. I am constantly experimenting and pushing myself to develop and learn new skills within knitting, sculpting, sewing and painting.