Creative Pathways: kickstart your arts career

We always enjoy sharing the many skills that go into making our amazing art form. As we approach the closing date for this year's Creative Pathways applications, Patrick, Anvere and Anna share some of the things they liked best about the time they spent with BRB.

Patrick Gavin

When I applied for the programme I didn’t really know what to expect, I was worried that I needed prior knowledge on the technicalities of dance, however I soon learnt that the programme was more focussed on the production side of the industry.  

When I began my individual training, I was extremely excited to experience working with the stage department as it meant that there would be more opportunities to be backstage during a show and I would be able to be more involved in the action. I was given a lot of responsibilities which was a little stressful at first but it helped me to get first-hand experience with how a show is run before, during and after performances. It was really interesting to see the wider aspects of the job in that it’s not all about the show days but also the preparations including transporting set from the stores and other venues for the tours. I helped load one truck for the Triple Bill show and I was completely worn out! It surprised me how much hard work goes into loading one trailer so I can only imagine how much work it takes to load the trucks for bigger productions, such as The Nutcracker.

Being immersed into a professional environment and given so much responsibility was challenging, however it helped me to dive head first into the action, to build on my practical and communication skills and pushed me out of my comfort zone. Overall it’s been enlightening to see how much work goes into each production and the combined effort across departments in order to create the shows that we love to watch.

The programme is an amazing eye opener as to what goes on behind the scenes, especially if you are looking for a career in this industry. I would recommend it to people as it puts you at a higher advantage for future opportunities.  

Anna Thirkettle

I decided to apply in my final year of studying for my undergraduate degree in Clarinet Performance at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, because I wanted to explore careers in music beyond performing and teaching before I graduated. I had an interest in orchestral management, but I had not had a chance yet to gain any experience or insight into the role, so I was keen to do this before deciding to apply for any jobs in this field. I was one of the first participants to work with the Orchestra Management department, and I really appreciate the opportunity, as there are extremely limited opportunities to gain experience in this type of work.

I really enjoyed learning about what goes on behind the scenes to create a ballet performance. In my career as a musician, I aspire to play in pit orchestras for musical theatre, ballet and opera, and I think my insight and knowledge of what goes on backstage, and issues that orchestra managers can face, will help me stand out as a musician, as this programme was a unique experience.

I have now finished my degree, and next year I am working at Wells Cathedral School as a Graduate Music Assistant. As part of this job, I will be the Orchestra Manager for their Symphony Orchestra. During my interview for this role, I talked about my experiences on the programme, and the panel were extremely impressed. I am very grateful to have taken part, as it will allow me to take on my new role confidently, as well as any future roles that I may have.

Anvere Kaila

I was immediately drawn to the prospect of working as a costume assistant and applied to the programme on a whim, not expecting to get a place, but simply glad to apply for something that felt out of reach for myself. In my application I mentioned that coming from a South Asian family, there is a common misunderstanding of arts careers being rendered ‘not feasible’ because they defy common career choices which parents may steer their children towards. I wanted to show that the fruition of one’s creativity is rewarding, and to pursue something I am passionate about.  

For my individual training, I worked as a Costume Assistant for an education project called Sleeping Beauty Dreams 2024 where I shadowed the Costume Supervisor. The realisation of being in this role sank in as I was so nervous and I doubted my skills but continued to give it my all despite that. Naturally this dispelled when I watched the performance from the wings and saw all the costumes that worked on was so rewarding, heartwarming, and an emotional experience. The intensive training felt like a glimpse into a dream of what my future could be.

I also had the pleasure of working with the Digital team on some green screen filming for Cinderella. From loading, unpacking and setting up the filming equipment to the order of filming the short list, I was constantly learning new things along the way.

I’m so proud to have been part of a programme that has supported my personal development and confidence; it constantly pushed me outside my comfort zone, as you really have to believe in yourself. Thank you to BRB for making this residency so enjoyable and memorable.