What did you do before coming to ALT? 

Before I joined the Academy of Live Technology, I was studying Technical Theatre at Cheshire College South and West. I decided that I wanted to expand my horizons and focus more on the live events industry rather than just theatre - and ALT was the best option for me!   

What's your favourite part of studying at ALT? 

I think it'd have to be the practical lessons. It really does come in handy when doing freelance work in the industry and is very exciting. 

What do you do on your course? 

The Live Events Production course covers 3 main sections in the first year. Between the first 3 terms of the year, we have studied lighting, sound, and video/visuals as well as health and safety, staging and concept design. It's been nice to have a good balance of practical sessions but also getting the theory side of the course and really important context to the industry. 

What has been your favourite project or work experience opportunity so far? 

My favourite project that I have worked on so far would have to be Eurovision in Liverpool 2023. I was given the opportunity of a lifetime to take on the role of Follow Spot Operator with the help of Cheshire College and the partnership with Robe, as well as Tim Routledge and his dedication to helping students get involved in the industry! Me and 4 other students were given training on the RoboSpot system by Robe, not knowing that we would be given an amazing job opportunity, so it really was a shock! 

During the first week, there was mention of an 'Operation Bardot' which later turned out to be a visit from King Charles and Camilla! Tim was asked to pick 2 people from the whole Follow Spot team, and I was very lucky and grateful to have been chosen. It was such a surreal experience and I have made so many valuable connections from that experience which I will be able to take forward into the future with me during my career! 

Is there one thing that inspired you to do what you do now? 

There were quite a few things that inspired me to pursue a career in the live events industry. One of the main ones is my dancing experience. Being up on the stage was always a big dream of mine however, I took a very strong interest in what was going on backstage and how everyone worked together as a team to put on our shows. It really opened my eyes to the possibilities of different jobs I could go into that expands beyond just being onstage. I took all the knowledge that I had gained from watching backstage during my dance shows for 14 years and progressed into college. 

I also attended concerts quite regularly growing up. I've always been surrounded by performing arts and music since I was little and the atmosphere at concerts is truly an amazing feeling. The adrenaline you get waiting for the main act is so exciting! I remember the first arena concert I went to; I was distracted by the lighting and was trying to figure out where it was being controlled from, only to realise it was someone behind a desk! The idea of being able to enjoy an event like everyone in the audience but also being able to work with others as a team, and give others a memorable experience was something that really interested me.

Is there a dream project or collaboration you’d love to work on?

I would love to go on tour for some big artists in the industry working either lighting or sound. I would love to experience putting on a live event in a stadium too! However, if I had to pick an artist in particular it would definitely be The 1975, their set design for their most recent tour was amazing! 

What advice would you give someone who wants to study at ALT? 

Always take every opportunity given to you. It may not be something that you are particularly interested in but you will never know if you don't take it! Always give 100% effort towards everything you do, it doesn't go unnoticed. Work hard in your studies and always thrive to be the best version of you!  

When you study here, you’ll not only learn how the industry works, but how it’s evolving. You’ll learn from industry professionals, have access to global work opportunities and award-winning industry partnerships. So, by the time you graduate, you’ll be ready to explore the world of work ahead of you.  

Find out more about ALT at our next Open Day events.