"Some organisations do not take the arts seriously"

Hometown
I am originally from Middlesbrough and now live in Stockton

What do you do?
Community arts development officer, Arc, Stockton

How long have you been at it?
One year in this job

What was your very first role in theatre?
Front of house assistant at Stephen Joseph Theatre, Scarborough

What else have you done in theatre?
* Theatre shop assistant, Stephen Joseph Theatre
* Box office assistant/ bartender, Billingham Forum Theatre
* Box office and marketing assistant, Arc, Stockton
* Box office manager, Arc, Stockton
* Arts development team assistant, Stockton Borough Council
* Assistant arts development officer, Stockton Borough Council

Have you got qualifications?
* Currently studying towards a level 5 management diploma
* a theatre studies and English degree
* A-level theatre studies, art and English
* BTEC national diploma in performing arts

What did you do before you worked in theatre?
I have worked in bars and call centres and done cleaning work

How did you make the move to working in theatre?
I waited for the right opportunity and kept abreast of regional activity

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Archaeologist, physiotherapist or visual artist

What do you do all day?
My role involves fundraising, networking, consulting, research and development, budget keeping, project management, providing information to people and advocating for Arc

What’s your favourite thing about your job?
The diversity and the community I work with

And the worst?
The fact that still some organisations do not take the arts seriously

What’s your dream job in theatre?
Programmer or actress

Got any wise words for someone who wants to be where you are now?
Stick at it and talk to as many people as possible, good things come to those who wait