Discovering the World of Theatre: CC’s Work Experience at Live Theatre
CC, a Year 13 student, recently completed a transformative work experience at Newcastle’s Live Theatre, where she gained a deeper understanding of the inner workings of a professional theatre. From observing rehearsals to learning about finance, marketing, and community engagement, CC’s weeklong experience opened her eyes to the diverse roles behind the scenes and solidified her passion for pursuing a future in drama and performance.
Tell us a little bit about your work experience; who did you work with?
I took part in a work experience week at Live Theatre in Newcastle. During the week, I got to learn about every aspect of the theatre; this included everything from finance and marketing to working with school children and children with special educational needs. I discovered many areas of theatre that I didn’t even know existed. I hadn’t realised just how many different parts there are!
Each day was different. On the first day, we observed rehearsals to see how they typically unfold. This included watching people repeat scenes, technical rehearsals, adjusting the lighting, and so on. I didn’t expect how long it would take just to get the lighting right—there was a lot of sitting still and waiting! In the afternoon, we met more of the staff and learned about their journeys to the theatre, their degrees, acting training, and things like that.
Throughout the week, we did different activities. For example, we talked to women working in finance, who explained how they collaborate with charities and other organizations. On the last day, we visited other venues in Newcastle, like the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and The Glasshouse in Gateshead, to see how they operate and collaborate with each other.
How did you find this work experience opportunity?
I found out through social media. I follow a few acting work experience accounts on Facebook and Instagram, and I saw a post on Live Theatre’s account about the opportunity. The application process involved answering a few questions about my acting experience and what I thought I could contribute to the week. Then, there was an interview where they asked more in-depth questions, like what I would change about theatre and my favourite styles of theatre.
How important is it to be proactive in finding these opportunities?
I think it’s really important because it helps you figure out what areas you enjoy and which ones you don’t. For me, it clarified that I would like to work in theatre, and it made me interested in the Theatre and Performance course at Northern Bridge University. Being proactive can help others avoid going down paths that aren’t the right fit for them.
How does this experience link to your future plans? Has this experience influenced your decision in any way?
In the future, I’d like to teach drama. Many people at Live Theatre teach drama to both children and adults, as well as direct and produce plays. Speaking to the producers was really interesting, and it showed me that this is something I’m genuinely passionate about. Their daily jobs involve working with large groups of people, including children, and that really appeals to me. It made me excited about the possibility of doing something I love.
It hasn’t changed my plans, but it’s definitely made me more confident about them. I know I want to apply for Theatre and Performance at university and also audition for drama schools. I haven’t decided which path I’ll take yet, but both are similar in that they teach the same kinds of skills in a full-time course setting.
What do you think helped you succeed in your application for this work experience?
Honestly, I think it helped that I’d already been part of productions at Live Theatre. I’ve performed in shows there for the public before. But also, I think my passion for theatre came across in the interview. I’m really enthusiastic about it, and I think they saw that I was genuinely interested in the work experience week.
What advice would you give to other pupils?
I would say, be honest in your application. If you’re asked about something you haven’t done, it’s better to admit it. Also, choose a work experience that really suits you and relates to the subjects you’re passionate about. If it’s not something you’re interested in, it can feel like a wasted week. Pick something that excites you and that you feel confident in.