University and theatre forge links in skills boost

Staffordshire University graduate Maddie Hughes is now in-house photographer for Stafford's Gatehouse Theatre

A university is working with a theatre to give students a chance to get involved in productions on and off stage.

Staffordshire University said the partnership with the Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford, would offer "golden opportunities".

Under the scheme, drama students will be guaranteed an audition place for the theatre's annual Shakespeare production.

Students on other creative industry courses would also be encouraged to try out backstage and technical roles in other productions, the university added.

'Open doors'

Stafford Gatehouse manager Gary Stevens said he was "really excited" about the long-term partnership, and working with the students in a "practical way to improve their skills and employability".

The scheme would "run much deeper than having our branding on the theatre’s production materials", said Deborah Sanderson from Staffordshire University.

It had the potential to "open doors" for students and graduates to see backstage and meet the people behind some of the theatre's biggest productions, she added.

Photography graduate Maddie Hughes, who is now the theatre's in-house photographer, said gaining work experience at the venue while studying had helped her career.

“Starting here as a student, I’ve really been able to build my confidence working in this industry," she said.