"Take whatever jobs you can to build up your CV"

Hometown
Newcastle

Do you consider yourself to have any disabilities?
Diabetes

What do you do?
Education and outreach manager at The Round

What was your very first role in theatre?
Youth theatre member and then my first paid role was as a freelance drama worker

What have you done in theatre?
I was a freelance drama worker between June 2004 and May 2007, for companies such as Monster Productions, Live Theatre, Busy Ape Arts, Gateshead Council, Easington District and Newcastle City Council. For 18 months I was a drama coach at Sacred Heart Catholic High School before I started my new job at The Round in July 2007.

Have you got qualifications?
GCSEs, A-levels and a degree in drama

How did you start working in theatre?
I began to freelance as a drama worker and then got my first permanent job from there

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A writer

What do you do all day?
I call schools and highlight what shows we have on. I organise groups to take part in the workshops that we have. I contact freelancers to run the workshops and frequently meet with organisations such as schools, local businesses and local community groups.

What’s the best thing about your job?
Contact with the children and young people through workshops and school sessions

And the worst?
Having to sell great shows to people who don’t want to know

What’s your dream job in theatre?
Writer

Got any wise words for someone who wants to be where you are now?
Don’t expect to be paid for at first when you’re really new in the industry. Take whatever jobs you can to build up your CV.