Eluned Banfield (Stage Management)

Department:: Production Arts
Year of Graduation:: 2019-20

Photo by Em Davis

What's been your highlight during your time at Guildhall?

My most memorable moment, the absolute highlight of my time at Guildhall has to be Stage Managing ‘La Fedeltà Premiata’. It was a huge show, with a motorbike; running water; a ladder up the side of the set; two boats - which tracked across the stage; a giant sparkly flown heart; huge sea monster tentacles and much more! The show was intense and I really found my feet in the process! My confidence grew. The long hard technical process was rewarded by knowing how thrilled the Director and Designer were with my work.

What's been your highlight in the industry?

It has been fabulous to work as a Stage Assistant in the Barbican Concert Hall over the last year. I've worked on concerts, with orchestras such as the BBCSO, and on shows such as Anton & Erin- 'Dance those Magical Movies'.

What other passions and projects have you enjoyed exploring during your time at Guildhall?

I've been lucky enough to gain an insight into the TV and film industry whilst studying at Guildhall. My Graduation Project involved researching the roles of the Line Producer; Assistant Directors; Location Manager; and Production Buyer. To do this I met with, and interviewed various industry professionals, it was fantastic to make these contacts. I then undertook hypothetical pre-production planning for shooting a film. I'm excited to explore the onscreen industry, as well as theatre when I graduate.

What's something you've learned that you feel will help you when you graduate?

For me, the most crucial thing I've learnt is the ability to be the calm, down-to-earth figure amongst the busy commotion of the entertainment world. And also that a sense of humour is vital!!

What are you most interested in working in after you graduate?

I’m awful at narrowing down my options and I love being busy. Therefore, when I graduate I’m going to look for Runner work on film sets, as I’d very much like to work my way up the Assistant Director ladder, however I need ground-level experience first. Additionally, Guildhall has given me a passion for opera and so working on opera festivals … or in the big opera houses would be amazing. Live events would be awesome too. I just want to be busy, doing what I love!