Milicent
Heaton

BA (Hons) Costume Design and Making now known as BA (Hons) Design for Stage and Screen (Costume Design and Construction).

What made you choose to study at NTU?
“I was drawn to NTU at an open day by the staff’s expertise and friendliness. The course offered at NTU is rare because it allows you to design and make throughout the entire three years. I believe you will be more successful in your career if you experience a wider range of techniques, teaching and experiences throughout your degree.”

What do you enjoy most about your course?
“The opportunities we have to make such a huge and varied selection of work is incredible. The skills I have learnt on the course so far cover millinery, corsetry, period sewing techniques, hand sewn tailoring, embroidery, dyeing and distressing fabrics, puppetry and so many more.”

Has the course included any live projects?
“Throughout the course there has been various live briefs, including a project with the Nottingham Theatre Royal’s School for Scandal anniversary production. During this project, every student had the chance to be involved in all parts of the process, from initial stage designing to dressing on the night. On this project I worked backstage and gained experience dressing the actors and fixing costumes between performances which was very interesting, informative and fun!”

How do you find the course staff?
“I believe one of the most important parts of this course is the vast well of knowledge that the tutors and technical staff have, and how well they interact as a team to make the course as amazing as it is.

“It is apparent that their goal as staff is to pass on as much of their wisdom onto us students to give us the best chance at a career that we could possibly have. Every member of staff is visibly supportive and wants to help every student succeed on the course and at university in general in whatever way they can. It’s honestly like a course family.”

Have you completed any work placements?
“I worked with two other girls in my year on Ryan Harvey’s flagship project, The Adventurers of Lordhagen. As a trio, we contributed to designing, developing, and sourcing existing garments,  made costumes, dressed the characters on set and everything in between! Gaining this experience was vital as it helped me to use the skills I had been taught during my degree so far. It gave me insightful knowledge into how the industry of film and costume works, helped strengthen my ability to communicate as a designer and maker and improved how I can convey my artistic ideas.”

Why would you recommend studying Costume Design and Making at NTU?
“I believe that you couldn’t possibly get a better opportunity at a University than this! At NTU you gain an unbeatable set and range of skills in the specialism of Costume Designing and Making, combined with consistent and in-depth supportive teaching.”