Performing & Production Arts students recently took centre stage during workshops with two world-renowned theatre companies.

At the capital’s famous The Old Vic theatre, Level 3 Performing & Production Arts learners had the opportunity to participate in directing skills seminars with professional directors Maria Laumark and Ed Hill before watching a production of Pygmalion.

And at LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art), a mix of Level 2 and Level 3 students enjoyed a performance of Julius Caesar before taking part in a post-show industry workshop/Q&A with drama school students and the creative team at LAMDA.

Carole Bowles, Performing & Production Arts Lecturer at CWC, said: “This is our second year as part of The Old Vic Theatre Schools Club programme, which offers our Performing & Production Arts students free theatre tickets and production industry skills workshops with The Old Vic this year.

“Level 3 students took part in a directing skills workshop based on George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion in advance of seeing the highly acclaimed new production at The Old Vic itself.

“With more technical skills planned, the students are looking forward to an exciting year of Old Vic Schools Club membership ahead. Thank you, Old Vic!”

The students certainly enjoyed The Old Vic experience, with one commenting: “The workshop was really interesting because I had the chance to practice directing skills.”

While another happy learner added: “It was really good to have the chance to see the play on The Old Vic stage after doing the workshop in the morning. I could really see how some of the director’s ideas were put on stage along with the costumes, lighting, sound and music.”

The LAMDA workshop also proved a huge hit with staff and students alike.

Lecturer Ms Bowles said: “As well as seeing an innovative approach to a production of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, this event was a great opportunity for Performing & Production Arts students to meet current trainees at a highly regarded conservatoire.

“After the performance, our students asked insightful questions about training as well as advice about developing and applying their own skills. The production also introduced students to small-scale touring as part of a professional actor's job role.

“Thanks to all the company and touring team at LAMDA for all their creativity, wisdom and inspiration.”

Students agreed it a was a fantastic experience.

“It was interesting to see a classical production so close up. I learnt a lot about how I want to prepare for my drama school auditions this year.” — Ext Dip student

“I really liked the actor’s energy, when everyone was on stage. The Q&A session was good, too. It made me think about my own performance skills.” — Level 2 student

“I enjoyed the Q&A where we were given advice about line learning, voice work and how the rehearsals worked when putting the production together.” — Ext Dip student