In Conversation with BA Production Arts student Lauren Jones
In Conversation with BA Production Arts student Lauren Jones
From preparing a portfolio to managing finances, we caught up with BA Production Arts (Design Realisation) student Lauren Jones to talk about why they chose Guildhall, the amazing theatre and opera scene in London and what their future dream job would be.
Why did you decide to apply to Guildhall to study Production Arts and why did you pick your degree pathway?
I am a mature student and when I originally left secondary school, I wasn’t aware of Production Arts as a potential career path (my school didn’t have a drama department, and I didn’t have much exposure to theatre and opera when I was growing up). I originally studied for a design degree and when I graduated I started working in Fashion, and later, Costume. Through working in Costume, I became more aware of other Production Arts disciplines. I had always loved making things at school, and once I discovered Scenic Art and Props, I knew that I could happily build a career in those areas. I knew some people who were already studying at the school, and so I researched on the website and attended Open Days to become more familiar with the Design Realisation pathway. Once I saw the facilities and met the tutors, Guildhall became my standout first choice.
At Guildhall, applications are made directly to the school – how did you find this process?
I found the process really simple as I’d researched the course on the website and attended a couple of Open Days. I was aware of key dates and had the chance to ask the lecturers and students questions about what to include in my application. As I was applying for Design Realisation, I focused heavily on getting my portfolio up to date with pictures of things that I had made and painted, and examples of work experience that I had done. I also found the interview day really interesting as we had the chance to meet current students on the course and see work that was currently being produced. My interview was really relaxed and throughout the application process it felt as though tutors and Guildhall staff were supportive and wanted you to do well.
What are your top tips for submitting an application?
- I think it’s really important to research all of the courses you’re thinking of and to have honest conversations with the tutors and current students to make sure it’s the right course for you. Design Realisation prepares you well for work as a Prop Maker, Scenic Artist or Scenic Fabricator - if working in one of these roles is your dream then that’s perfect, but if not then there might be other courses that would suit you better and so it’s important to do your research. It’s a big (and fun) decision, so it’s better to make sure it’s right for you.
- With your portfolio it's better to look at quality over quantity - you don’t have to have a massive body of work. Select a few key pieces of work that you’d be happy to talk through in your interview, and that you feel represent your passions as a maker/builder/artist.
- Be mindful of the key dates and get your application in on time!
- Be yourself - the tutors want to get to know you and what you’re interested in, so try to use your interview day to show your personality and passions.
- If you’re stuck then get in touch - I had questions while I was applying that I was able to ask at the Open Day, but if you miss that then there’s lots of ways via the website to contact staff and students at the school so they can help you.
What advice would you give to students who are interested in studying Production Arts and are deciding which course to apply to?
The Production Arts course is brilliant as it’s so skills-focused and vocational, preparing you with the skills you’ll need to work in industry. There’s also a great opportunity to undertake a module called Associated Studies, where you can try out different PA disciplines (I tried Electrics, Lighting, Video and Production Management).
I felt that I learned the most from attending the Open Days speaking to current students and staff, so I could see what they were working on and ask the questions directly - I’d really recommend coming to one if you’re considering Production Arts as a career path.
What are you most looking forward to on your course this year?
I’m most excited to work on productions for the Silk Street theatre - particularly the big opera productions, as they usually have beautiful big sets with lots of interesting elements to sample and paint!
What advice would you give about moving to London?
London is an amazing place to live and there’s so much going on! I think the main concern I had with living in London as a student was around managing my money - especially as a mature student - as London is quite an expensive city. I did a lot of research into grants and applied for financial support, and I also tried to save as much as possible before starting the course. I’d recommend saving if you can, getting your student finance sorted as early as possible and living to a budget to make sure you don’t run into any issues down the line. It’s challenging but not impossible, and London is fantastic - I can’t imagine living anywhere else!
Can you tell us why you chose to study here, what made Guildhall stand out for you?
The reasons I chose to study here are:
- The location is amazing - it’s brilliant to be in the city centre and to have so many amazing theatre and opera productions on your doorstep!
- The quality of the shows - it’s such a valuable experience to be able to work on such huge, beautifully designed shows as a student, the work Guildhall produces is world-class.
- The teaching staff across Production Arts are outstanding, particularly in Design Realisation. They are fonts of knowledge, and I am constantly learning new techniques and skills from them.
- The facilities in Design Realisation are amazing - we have three well-equipped workshops complete with a full paint bridge for painting back cloths.
- The network of Guildhall alumni is incredibly strong, and there are Guildhall graduates in many of the big theatres and production companies across the country. There are lots of opportunities to get work and placements with alumni and we have mentors in industry that we can ask questions of.
If you could have a working role in any theatre or live event production, what would it be and why?
I’d love to work at the Royal Opera House in their Scenic Art or Props departments - they paint absolutely beautiful sets, and it would be a dream role!
