Great Lakes resident, Jenevieve Bawden was selected from hundreds of applicants across the state to take part in the Sydney Theatre Co’s annual work experience program this month.
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For the first time, a small number of scholarships were awarded to candidates from regional areas of NSW, an opportunity Jenevieve was quick to jump on. She was amazed by the company’s consideration, saying it was great to see rural kids thought of and supported.
“When I found out I was awarded the full rural scholarship as well as acceptance into the program I was ecstatic,” she explained.
“It enabled me to attend the week without having to stress about accommodation or travelling expenses, and allowed me to truly immerse myself in the whole experience.”
Living in a rural community and attending school full time means Jenevieve doesn’t have the time she would like to spend in the theatre, but she has always gotten involved where she can, taking part in all theatre related school events.
“My interest definitely fuels my ambition in the industry, and it’s what led me to apply for the work experience, although I never imagined I’d get in!” she said.
“The program really helped me get an idea about what the industry is all about, and how it works, especially through the lens of one the country’s leading theatre companies.”
Alongside the opportunity to meet many talented professionals on the trip, Jenevieve loved experiencing the artistry come to life on stage in front of her.
“It was unreal how welcoming and excited everyone was to meet us and work with us as well,” she said.
“The program also enabled me to understand how to enter the industry, especially with it being such a competitive one.
“We were given tips and ideas from the resident artistic director, Kip Williams, and I learnt so much about the inner workings of the company too.”
Each day during the week the students focused on a different department, looking at programming, direction, set and costume design, marketing and corporate sponsorship.
Students worked in groups to complete activities in the roles of different creatives and staff.
The experience culminated in a group presentation in which students pitched their concept ideas for a production of Accidental Death of an Anarchist.
The program endeavors to inspire a love and appreciation of the theatre-making process, as well as foster the next generation of arts industry professionals.
For Jenevieve, there is no doubt she will be among them.
“The entire trip was an amazing experience for me, and I strongly recommend anyone who is interested in the theatre industry to apply. It’s a real eye-opener.” she said.
