NPTC Group of Colleges welcomed the British Youth Music Theatre to Nidum Arts Centre at Neath College for a ‘Discover Musical Theatre’ careers and audition day, hoping to inspire the next generation to discover a career in theatre.
Students found out about the many different aspects of theatre production and the type of roles available in the industry. Hands-on experience included having a go at stage lighting with an experienced technician.
Musicians and performers also got the chance to demonstrate their skills in professional audition workshops. Musicians took part in a ‘pit-stop’ session which involved them playing brand new material as an ensemble, followed by a solo audition. The Performing Arts students were split into groups and rotated between workshops in dance, acting and singing. The day finished with a Q&A where students were able to ask questions to a range of experienced professionals about careers backstage and front of house.
Jac Evans-Mason who is studying in his second year of Performing Arts thoroughly enjoyed the experience. He said: “The whole day was very enjoyable and enthralling. I found it inspiring, it has given me an insight to the number of jobs that are out there in the performing and creative arts industry. It’s also made me realise the amount of creativity that you as a performer can have to cooperate with other artists within the industry to create new pieces to entertain and educate.”
Fellow Performing Arts student Ellie McGuire was equally impressed: “The day was incredibly eye-opening! It was amazing to see how a job that I thought was so out of reach was even closer than I could have ever imagined, and it inspired me to push even harder to get into the industry and work harder for my dream job in Performing Arts. The day helped with my confidence, and I was enthralled with how friendly everyone was and how my nerves immediately faded away. Thank you so much for the opportunity!”
Music Lecturer Carolyn Davies, who organised and led the event, said: “It really was a fantastic day for all. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves and it was extremely productive. We would like to thank the British Youth Music Theatre for giving our students this unique opportunity.”
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