Reflections on My Work Experience at The Place

I was incredibly lucky to be offered the opportunity to do my work experience at The Place. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about all the different elements that make up a successful business, from HR to the Communications Department. Seeing all these departments come together in the Theatre and Artist Development meeting to plan and feedback on past and future projects, productions, and trips was a useful insight.

Working with various teams has allowed me to make connections and develop my communication skills, which is important, therefore preparing me for a career in the Arts. This is especially useful as I am currently a dance student at The Brit School who would like to pursue a career within the performing arts industry, and this placement has allowed me to expand my knowledge. I am also a CAT student, and it was interesting to see what is involved in the administrative side of the programme when I spent time in their office.

I worked with the Classes & Courses, and Creative Learning departments, which are involved in organising classes across all age groups. I found learning about their work within the community, particularly inspiring young people, very interesting and I was grateful to be allowed to participate in one of their classes.

This placement has allowed me to spectate multiple BA classes across different styles and years, which helped me gain a more in-depth knowledge of how LCDS works. This, combined with my time in the school office, enabled me to develop a greater understanding of what The Place could offer me as a future higher education option.

At the end of the week, not only was I able to watch the BA3 show rehearsals but I also got to see a professional show dress rehearsal of Ham:Beth as part of the Festival of Korean Dance 2025. Being able to see how a professional show is put together was constructive and stimulating.

I also really enjoyed working in the costume department, where I was impressed by the huge range of outfits and props which were meticulously organised. I assisted the staff with the organisation by type and colour, as well as learning about the borrowing system. The commitment to reuse and recycle is admirable and the maintenance of the historic collection is incredible.

Overall, I found my week at The Place inspiring and constructive, and I would highly recommend any aspiring student interested in the performance industry to apply.

Thank you to Zahra for organising a varied and engaging programme which offered me a great insight into The Place and what it can offer.

By Phoebe Parmenter