"I love watching people enjoy themselves and helping them realise some of their potential"

Hometown
Originally from Exeter, now working in Worcester

What do you do?
Assistant director and lead animateur, C&T Theatre Company, Worcester

How long have you been at it?
Five years

What was your first role in theatre?
I started with C&T straight after university as a drama worker, my job then changed to animateur, then lead animateur and now assistant director

What else have you done in theatre?
My only other paid role was as house manager for the Worcester Three Choirs Festival in summer 2005.
As a volunteer, I took part in numerous performances in school, college, university and for amateur dramatics, as well as stewarding and performing at the Exeter Festival.

Have you got qualifications?
I’ve got a degree in drama and history from University College Worcester (now University of Worcester) and am about to start an MA in drama education

Did you do work experience?
Whilst I was at university, I started doing work experience with C&T in my first year. In the second year I was employed to run their youth theatre for 7-11 year olds and then in the third year I also took on the senior youth theatre for 12-18 year olds.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
RAF Pilot, chef, archaeologist or actor. If none of those were possible then a jedi knight!

What do you do all day?
Working with people between the ages of three and 93, mostly in schools, using drama for learning in subjects across the curriculum.
Sometimes I use drama techniques to build social skills with disabled people or the younger children.

I perform, direct, film, facilitate and teach, amongst other things.

What’s the best thing about your job?
No two days are the same. I love watching people enjoy themselves and helping them realise some of their potential.

And the worst?
When I have to become like a strict teacher in classroom situations

What’s your dream job in theatre?
I think I’m pretty much there, but I’d still love to be in a big political drama, especially something by David Hare.

Got any wise words for someone who wants to be where you are now?
Volunteer for stuff and get involved, take risks and try new things. I fell into this job by doing work experience at university.