Newcastle College students took to the stage at the UK Top Influencer Awards on 3 May, delivering a live performance as part of one of the region’s most high-profile entertainment events at the Assembly Rooms, Newcastle.
The awards brought together content creators, public figures and industry names from across the UK, with students performing in front of a live audience in a professional, high-energy environment.
Students from across multiple curriculum areas played a central role in the event. A mix of Dance and Musical Theatre students opened the show with a live performance, while Music Technology students supported from a production perspective. Hair, Beauty and Make-Up students worked alongside professional artists to prepare talent for the red carpet. Photography and Fashion Marketing and Communication students were embedded behind the scenes, capturing and supporting the delivery of the event throughout the evening.
From rehearsals through to live delivery, students worked to tight timeframes and professional expectations, gaining valuable experience of operating within a large-scale, public-facing production.
Christopher Henderson, Managing Director of UK Top Influencer Ltd, said:
“Working with Newcastle College students on this year’s UK Top Influencer Awards was a real highlight. They brought incredible energy, professionalism and passion throughout.
“Creating opportunities is at the heart of what we do, but it’s those who step into them that make the impact - and these students did exactly that, playing a vital role in delivering such a successful night.”
Gemma Wynne, Head of Performance Academy at Newcastle College, said:
“Opportunities like this are incredibly valuable for our students. Performing at a live awards event, in front of a large audience and within a professional production environment, allows them to apply their training in a real-world context.
“It supports the development of confidence, adaptability and performance skills that are essential for progression into the industry. It’s also hugely exciting to see them step onto a stage like this and deliver with such energy and professionalism.”
Lewi Jenkins, a Dance student at Newcastle College, said:
“Performing at the Influencer Awards was an experience I never thought I’d have. It’s by far the best experience I’ve had while studying at Newcastle College.
“The atmosphere was so different to performing on stage as a musical theatre student - the energy was through the roof, and I’m really grateful to have played a part in making the night as special as it was.”
The event highlights the College’s strong links with industry partners and its focus on providing students with access to real industry experience across performance, production and creative disciplines.