In the summer of 2011, after completing their professional theatre placements, the first of our Technical students completed their three year BA(Hons) degree course and within weeks of graduation had started their professional theatre careers. This is what one of them had to say about our innovative new "Theatre Studies and Technical Stage Production" degree..

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time studying Theatre and Technical Stage Production, the course gave me a really good grounding in many aspects of theatre and theatre production, ready for a lifetime of further learning through experience.

The production modules on the course are run as closely as possible to professional production methods, from rehearsals through to opening night. This makes it really easy to walk into a professional theatre and know who’s who, what’s going on and why. Also, the studios are equipped with industry standard technology, so you are familiar with the type of kit that you come across again and again in professional venues.

I use the practical technical skills I learned at university every single day I am at work and the academic part of the course makes me realise why these technical aspects are so important. Particularly working in a school, it’s important to know why we stage certain productions in certain ways, and how that has developed. Whenever I am working practically I always keep safety in mind because of the health and safety training I received at Staffs.

The teaching on the course is excellent. Tutors and guest lecturers are industry professionals as well as teachers, so what you are learning is what is really going on in the real world. Everybody gets great support, and one on one tutorials and sessions are available if you need them. The lecturers gave me really personalised support whenever I felt I needed it.

I also just really enjoyed being on the course, and got to meet some lovely people, some of whom I look forward to working with again. Without my time at Staffs I wouldn’t be working in my chosen field today.

Nathan Clamp 2011 graduate - now the Drama and Theatre Technician for Rugby School.

"Thank you for all your support over the three years of my degree and your continued support now I am in the world of work. It is greatly appreciated and without your help I would not be where I am currently."
Natasha Talbot (Graduated in 2010, now working in the Marketing department at the New Vic Theatre.)

"The three years at staffs covered many different aspects of drama, for example, acting, behind the scenes, play analysis, teaching, volunteering, live art and even using the arts for health...I am now in the process of applying to study a masters in dramatherapy. Thank you Staffs!"

Rebecca Rogers (Graduated 2010)

"Everything taught on the course I have put into practice in my job today - The course provides you with the relevant skills and knowledge to take with you into the professional industry, from great tuition to excellent practical experience in every aspect imaginable!"

Zoe Scott, Creative Learning Officer and Stage Experience Co-ordinator. Regent Theatre, Hanley.(Graduated 2008)

"I recommend the Drama course for students who aren't sure which side of the stage they would like to be on. Be it creating a piece of theatre from scratch or from a script, operating lights or sound, costume making/designing or being the person on stage, this course is for you."

Tom Powell, Actor. (Graduated 2006)

"The tutors were all fantastic, each an expert in their field and the amount of support that they offered was above and beyond all expectations. It is this model of support that I have taken into my teaching career and I attempt to support my students in the same way."

Hannah Billings, now a Dance and Drama teacher (Graduated 2008)

"Studying Drama & Theatre Arts at Staffordshire University prepared me for the realities of the next step in my career."

Chris Hallam, Writer, actor, director. (Graduated 2007)

"Just wanted to thank you and everyone in the Dept at Staffs for helping me find my perfect job and for providing such good training which is realistic and true to the industry."

Faye Cardwell (Graduated 2009)
Academy Assistant, Northern Ballet

"My decision to study Drama, Performance and Theatre Arts at Staffordshire University has undoubtedly been one of the most rewarding decisions yet. Like a lot of people, before starting the course, I was unsure of my career path. The broad content of the course allowed me to explore various roles within the industry both practically and academically. Working with highly experienced and enthusiastic tutors enabled me to understand, respect and appreciate the importance of other roles within theatre."

Jane Higgins, graduate, went on to study for a post-graduate Masters degree in Acting at the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.

"Choosing Drama and Theatre Arts at Staffordshire University was the best decision I have made. It not only gave me the knowledge and expertise to progress within the industry, but the confidence and inspiration to go on to succeed. The lecturer's are second to none and really encourage success. Without Staffordshire University I would not be in the position I am today. I owe them a great deal of thanks."

Paul Taylor, graduate, now General Manager of the Open Theatre, Regent's Park, London.

“The 3 years I studied at Staffs Uni gave me a fantastic grounding for a career in drama. The course is full of various original, challenging and exciting modules that will set you up for a choice in any career in the arts, whether it’s acting, technical, playwriting, theatre in education, and if like myself and many others, you decide to teach, the academic modules will help no end when you enter your teacher training year. Brilliant social life; wonderful local theatre; I wish I could start all over again!”

Natalie McCleod, currently a Drama Teacher.

"...I've worked my way up and worked in all aspects of the theatre including Front Of House, Backstage Crew, Wardrobe, Theatre Development/ Functions and Events and Press and Marketing....thank you for your help during my Drama and Theatre Arts course as it set me up for a career path I am really enjoying following and its going well.

Laura Bell, graduate. Currently working at the Regent Theatre, Hanley.

"My time at Staffs was the best three years of my life; if it weren't for the course and the inspirational rapport formed with tutors/professionals/mentors/peers I don't think I would be working in the business today."

Jennie Harris graduate. Currently working at the Palace Theatre Manchester.

"I would recommend Staffordshire University to anyone considering where to study, but particularly to mature students. The variation of the curriculum and the depth of knowledge the university offers its students has enabled me to achieve a fantastic career path within 2 years of graduating. Staffordshire University, and in particular the Drama department, has not only furthered my education; it has also been an exceptional stepping stone towards a job that I'm extremely proud of."

Julie King, Theatre Practitioner, New Vic Borderlines.

"My experience at Staffs was great and very useful in terms of building up my confidence..."

Amit Shah, graduate. Currently working as an actor at the National Theatre and in film and television.

“I loved every second. Drama teachers were supportive and I learnt a lot from the lecturers’ team. “

Donna Taylor (after graduation, went on to a postgraduate course in Stage Management at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama)