Students from Newcastle College’s hair and beauty courses were given an exciting opportunity to be part of a successful local production at a historical venue recently.
The Level 3 students were invited to help with the hair and make-up for actors in the critically acclaimed stage show Gerry and Sewell, which also took them behind the scenes at the Theatre Royal.
Work Experience Coordinator Abbie Rutter, who also works part-time at the Theatre Royal, worked closely with the theatre to organise this incredible opportunity for our students.
Abbie said: “It made me so proud to see the learners thriving and enjoying this experience. I'm very grateful to Jamie and Rosie at the Theatre Royal who helped make this opportunity happen. These experiences are so important for the learners, plus, they show them some amazing jobs in the industry that they might not have considered before."
Hairdressing student Lee Wright added: “Working backstage was really exciting. There was a real buzz in the air. We were able to watch the dress rehearsal from the side of the stage, which was a treat as well as being useful to see what the actors needed us to do for them.
“The main thing I took from the experience is how to work closely in a team of creatives with very limited space. I also learnt that setting up is crucial as you don’t know what you need until the actors come in, so you have to be prepared for anything.
“This experience has made me want to push myself more during the rest of my time on the course.”
Based on Jonathan Tulloch’s novel The Season Ticket, which became the cult Geordie film Purely Belter, Gerry and Sewell starred Bill Ward (Coronation Street and Emmerdale), Michelle Heaton (Liberty X) and Project A alum Erin Mullen.