Matthew Nolan is a BA (Hons) Theatre and Performance student at Leeds School of Arts. Whilst studying Matthew has had the opportunity to be involved with a number of projects in our wider creative community. Here, he talks us through his experience.

Tell us a bit about yourself, why you chose to study your course and what interests you the most about the subject area.

I’ve always been involved with drama and performing from a young age and Leeds Beckett has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities where the Theatre and Performance course can take you. I aim to be a drama teacher after completing my degree and I’m applying elements of that into my dissertation too.

What opportunities have you had to work in the wider creative community during your course?

Thanks to my course, I’ve had the opportunity to work with A level drama students and be a part of multiple projects in Leeds 2023 ‘City of Culture’ festival. I have collaborated with lecturers Teresa Brayshaw and Hannah Butterfield in a project called ‘Weaving Voices’ in Leeds 2023, where we created and workshopped with sanctuary seekers. It was a truly amazing experience. 

What has been your favourite thing about your course so far?

I would say my favourite aspect of the course is the creative freedom you get; you can really make your work your own and there is a palpable sense of performance individually there too. 

What would you say to someone who is thinking about studying your course?

I would say to 100% come to Leeds Beckett University to study Theatre and Performance. There are excellent facilities and fantastic opportunities here. You are not only trained in performance skills, but you get a plethora of other industry experience from teaching to production and design. Leeds Beckett is a gateway to a successful and fulfilling career, all whilst having fun.