Qian Yan Tan (Stage Management)

Biography

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

Our Town would definitely be a highlight during my time at Guildhall. Working with industry professionals like John Haider (director) and Laura Ann Price (designer), we had high standards to meet in a complex design and direction, along with managing a cast of 23. This show pushed me to manage not only that but also be transparent and not be a dictator to my team, which I am very thankful to have succeeded in. I ensure that the company’s well-being were still cared for which was an important factor for me and my learning. It has shown me my growth in leading a team, having done a show on a similar scale back in my diploma. 

What's been your highlight in the industry?

I had a lot of fun as Assistant Stage Manager on L'elisir D'Amore (directed by Victoria Newlyn, Conducted by Matthew Kofi Waldren, Designed by Adrian Linford) at West Green Opera House. It was in a rural location so our resources were limited when it came to making new props! But that meant I could be very creative, which led me to make a fake trifle out of paint, paper and a laundry bag! This experience pushed me to look out of my comfort zone and really put my skill set into use. 

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

My awareness towards our emotional and mental well-being has increased since coming to London. I was fortunate enough to explore into this further as part of my graduation project and create a sensory safe space. 

Influencing one's senses through different elements, the room transports people into a new environment where they can feel calm. 

It was originally created for theatre practitioners working backstage but it was also visited by practitioners working onstage. It was very well received and I had tons of positive feedback! To this day, my project is still mentioned and I have been able to move forward with and create decompression rooms for productions. It has shown me how necessary a room of such is and how much people are aware to their mental health/ the conversation that still needs pressing.

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

Trust in the process. Whether it is in my profession or personal life, I have learnt I need to trust the process and be adaptable to the challenges I may face in the near future, because there is something more and much exciting to come, and that every moment is worth it! 

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

I would like to props supervise, having found an interest in propping. I would still like to dabble in all areas of Stage Management, with specialising into the role of Deputy Stage Manager. Having found a creative edge in me, I would like to pursue scenic art and design as well. Anything that pushes and challenges me is something I seek out the most!

"Qian Yan's working on the menus." the process