Kingsley Akam recently completed a two month internship as a Technical Assistant with the Dukes Theatre in Lancaster. Here are his reflections on the experience:
I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the University of Lancaster, Employment and Recruitment Service, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) and The Dukes Theatre and Cinema, Lancaster for giving me the opportunity to do a two-month internship as Technical Assistant with the Dukes.
The internship provided me with the platform to learn new things in theatre practice. I had another level of theatre experience I must say. I was fortunate to assist behind the scenes in two productions: GRIMME OF TALES presented by the Dukes and THE THREE MUSKETEERS presented by Le Navet Bete and Exeter Northcott Theatre at the Dukes, Lancaster.
I received some tutorials on projector, setting of sound systems behind the cinema screen. I gained more experience in sceneries, light rigging, striking and attitude of audience members to performances based on my observation.
The internship also provided me with the platform for networking. I was so fortunate to worked with those who are passionate to teach, guide and mentor you. These persons are not limited to Brent Lee, John, Katherine and many others who helped me. Thank you to my Hiring Manager, Rosemary Hindley, who was always ready to reply my emails. I will not forget my supervisors: Dr Jonathan Munby and Dr Maryam Ghorbankarimi who always encouraged me to be proactive. Once again, on a special note, Brent Lee is like the Library of The Dukes Theatre and Cinema. He is always ready to provide answers to my questions.
The experience I gained from the internship will help me greatly in my theatre and film practice and academic career.
I remain grateful to all of you.
Thank you,
Kingsley Oyong Akam