What is your occupation?
I am a lecturer in Video Design at Guildhall School of Music & Drama, leading a programme for students interested in the fast-changing and exciting world of digital video design and production. I am also responsible for the creative and technical supervision of the external projects that we do in the Production Arts department predominantly specialising in large format projection shows within Guildhall's productions and with external partners such as Waddesdon Manor, Glastonbury, the Shakespeare 400 Festival, the British Museum, Walthamstow Garden Party, Lux Festival and Tower Bridge.
Where did you study/train?
I trained for my undergraduate BA in Theatre Acting at Bretton Hall College. I also have a postgraduate diploma in Performance Studies specialising in Directing from the University of Leeds, and an MA in Digital Performance from the University of Hull.
What's been the proudest moment of your career so far?
When I realised that people would graduate from the BA in Video Design for Live Performance at Guildhall with a degree that I had written the syllabus for, one which provided an opportunity for people who were interested in this niche career path. I am proud to have established this video design course alongside Guildhall's other world class programmes.
What did you think of the drama lessons you received at secondary school?
I didn't study drama at secondary school because I thought it wasn't for people like me but a very influential teacher thought an A-level in Drama and Theatre Studies would be a good direction for me. This experience has inspired me to create work for a wider audience and to try to encourage a broader range of students to apply to the School. Creating the BA in Video Design and Live Performance has been one way of doing that.
What do you think about the state of drama education today?
In a culture where the arts are continually marginalised, courses in the arts and drama are increasingly important. Not only for those who want to go on study further in that area but because they breed reflective thinking, confidence, and communication, while reminding us that learning can be fun.
What would you say to a young person considering a career in your field?
I would say try to develop your imagination as much as your knowledge base. Don't be afraid to take risks and learn from your mistakes. Don't be in a hurry to be the finished product, enjoy the process of learning your craft.
What's next for you?
Expanding on the work that we are doing with external projects both in existing projects, such as an upcoming light and sound projection show at Waddesdon Manor's Christmas Carnival (10 November-2 January), and looking forward to creating new partnerships. I am also continuing to develop our video design curriculum to include the latest innovation such as real-time visuals like Notch and virtual reality.
What is BA Video Design for Live Performance?
Housed in the Production Arts department, this is a dynamic and innovative programme for students interested in the fast-changing and exciting world of digital video design and production. It uses state-of-the-art equipment and facilities in line with the latest industry developments.Teaching is practical and project-based, and students work on a range of projects with professional designers, programmers and animators, such as gallery installations, projection work for Guildhall productions and VJ-ing at festivals and club nights.
What does the course involve?
It provides specialist training in the rapidly-expanding field of projection and video-based arts forms. Over three years, students become more independent and are given more responsibility on projects.
What are the entry requirements?
Applicants are required to have two A-Levels at pass grades or equivalent. For this specific course, candidates are additionally required to have achieved a Grade B in any GCSE related to English prior to interview – anyone without this must sit a written test on their interview day.
How can you apply to this programme?
Directly to the Guildhall School via gsmd.ac.uk/apply – the deadline for 2019/20 is 6 March 2019. Attend Guildhall's open days to learn more about the Production Arts programmes on 8 November 2018 and 6 June 2019.