Thea
Luckcock

Thea tells us why she chose to study at NTU, and what she enjoys most about being a student on our Theatre Design course. She also tells us about her experience representing NTU and the Society of British Theatre Designers at the Prague Quadrennial of Performance Design and Space 2015.

What made you choose to study Theatre Design at NTU and what do you enjoy most about the course?
NTU had a warm, welcoming atmosphere and the tutors were very enthusiastic and personable. What I enjoy most is the vibrancy of the content we study, and the creative problem-solving we have to do.

Can you tell us about a guest lecture or workshop that you’ve really enjoyed?
We recently had a mask symposium that tied in with an exhibition at the University, which showcased local mask maker Stephen Jon’s work. A number of practitioners came in to talk about different things like the psychology of the mask and the characters of Commedia dell’arte.

Have you completed any work placements as part of your course?
I worked at Polka Theatre in Wimbledon, which is an established children’s theatre. I helped with making the props and also got to make a small installation related to the show. It was great meeting the designer and seeing how theatre design works in the real world.

You recently had the opportunity to spend time at the Prague Quadrennial of Performance Design and Space, representing the Society of British Theatre Designer’s (SBTD) UK Student Exhibit – can you tell us about the experience?
I was one of 12 students chosen to represent the UK Student Exhibit at Prague Quadrennial 2015. We made a simulation of border control, but with a UK that was much more accepting than it currently is. It was a great experience to collaborate with other theatre design students from across the country, and also great to meet people from all around the world.

How did you find out about this opportunity?
My tutor Kate Burnett told us about it and offered support throughout the process, as she was working on the main UK exhibit in Prague. The first time all the potential participants met was in the theatre at NTU for a two-day workshop to have an initial discussion about what was going to be in the exhibition.

How do you think that this experience will help you in your final year?
It’s definitely helped me in the way I see the process from start to end. It has made me a lot more conscious of how important it is to plan your time, and how to remain confident with your ideas.