Cornwall to host performing arts careers fair

Truro College is collaborating with leading drama schools and conservatoires to provide prospective students with information on careers in the performing arts. 

As part of the outreach, key representatives of the Federation of Drama Schools (FSD) and Conservatoires UK (CUK) are setting up a careers fair and delivering talks and workshops to helo students navigate the vocational training options in performing arts higher education.

The location was chosen as part of an effort to engage with students from remote areas across the UK.

Deputy team leader of performing arts at Truro & Penwith College, Kit Savage, discussed the event: ‘Cornwall is a peninsula where the average wage is more than 20% lower than the national average: with large pockets of deprivation. The nearest Drama School is over 150 miles away from Truro making a visit for an open day very expensive and prohibitive for many due to geographical and economic factors.’

They continued: ‘This event is therefore incredibly important for the aspiring theatre makers, doers and technicians of the future from Cornwall.’

The full list is still to be confirmed but schools participating include Guildhall, Italia Conti, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, LAMDA and Drama Studio London.

‘Many aspiring students face challenges when considering specialist higher education performing arts training, as visiting several open days, particularly in London, can be extremely expensive, and navigating the process can be daunting,’ said Sean McNamara, chair of FDS. 

‘We want to play our part in providing opportunities that will support future generations into the next stage of their development to achieve their ambitions of sustainable and rewarding careers.’ 

There are 300 places for attendees for the Truro site on 12 March, and it is expected to be fully booked. Early booking for the event is recommended, either as a group or through an educational or performance organisation.