Beth Hardman

BA (Hons) Stage Management student Beth Hardman spoke to us about her industry placement experience with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Where did you complete your work placement?

My placement was with the Royal Shakespeare Company working on the two productions in the Swan Summer Season.

How did you secure your placement?

I had to complete the questionnaire and send my CV followed by Skype interview. After the successful interview I was offered the placement the same day and I was off to London the next weekend.

What kind of things did you get involved with on your placement?

I worked across two management teams in the RSC system, doing admin tasks and helping with technical side of things in the rehearsal rooms. I also had an amazing opportunity to attend the press night. It was really interesting to see how two teams work together and how they communicate when organising calls.

What is the best piece of advice you took from your placement?

Talk to people, ask questions and network because you never know who you are going to meet or who you will be working with.

What advice do you have for other students thinking about their placements?

Don’t leave it for the last minute - start looking and applying as soon as you can! Make sure you only do something that you’ll find interesting.