Lauren Jones (Design Realisation)

Biography

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

I loved the gear change of taking on production roles for the first time in my second year and having the chance to work on the sets and props for new shows. I particularly loved working as a Scenic Artist for “Autumn Opera Double Bill” and as a Prop Maker for “A Star Next To The Moon” - these roles were a huge step up in responsibility and pace. I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge and seeing the work I produced on stage. I have found working with my tutors and external staff invaluable - they have taught me so much in such a short time, and it has been an incredible experience to see my skills and confidence develop.

What's been your highlight in the industry?

I have been incredibly fortunate to undertake freelance work and extracurricular projects
alongside my studies. During my second year, I worked with luxury fashion designer Patrick McDowell on their Autumn 2024/2025 collection in collaboration with Guildhall. I produced corsets made from discarded and broken musical instruments which allowed me to experiment and test my skills while working with new materials. I’m incredibly proud of what I was able to produce for them; it was amazing to have this work showcased at Guildhall as part of London Fashion Week.

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

I have tried to make the most of my time at Guildhall, and as a result, I’ve ended up working on several projects during my time here. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with other creatives, both inside and outside of Guildhall, and have earned a reputation as someone who can design and produce sets and props for new productions. During my second year, I designed, built and painted sets for two plays: “Birthday For Bear”, a family show adapted from a children’s book, and “A Jaffa Cake Musical”, presented at Edinburgh Fringe by Gigglemug Theatre company. I have loved working on these smaller shows, it has been great to be involved in many aspects of producing them.

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

The projects I’ve worked on at Guildhall have challenged me to get used to producing my
best work at pace - I feel that this has prepared me for work after I graduate. I also feel more resilient and confident in my abilities, which is vital when preparing to start new freelance projects.

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

I am hoping to find work in-house at a workshop as a prop maker or scenic artist, but I’m
also open to freelancing full-time and exploring opportunities for makers and artists around the UK.

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