A budding stage manager from south Belfast has secured a dream internship following her recent graduation. Christine Collins, from Finaghy, will begin a six-month internship with the Lyric Theatre later this month, where she will shadow the theatre’s Production Manager.
Having also secured a six-week placement with Kabosh Theatre Company, she is grateful for the opportunities that have come her way.
“I have always aspired to a career in stage management. Thanks to the practical experience I gained during my course, I have been able to get my career off to a great start by securing these two sought-after placements.”
Richard Croxford, Artistic Director at the Lyric Theatre is looking forward to Christine’s arrival at the award winning theatre.
“Christine will get a valuable insight into the realities of working in theatre. As the only full-time producing theatre in Northern Ireland, the Lyric is a vital nurturing ground for the dramatic arts both on and off-stage. It is important we provide these opportunities at a time when jobs and work experience are difficult to acquire.”
On July 6, Christine graduated from Queen’s University with a degree in Drama and English. She praised the university for the training she received.
“Queen’s Drama department is the largest university drama department in Ireland and has close links with the professional theatre sector. There is no better place to study Drama – I would recommend it to anyone who wants to pursue a career in theatre, whether on stage or behind-the-scenes.”
Christine secured her internship with the Lyric Theatre through the Northern Bank’s Freedom Experience Scholarship. Vanessa Postle, Community Affairs Manager, Northern Bank, emphasised the value of the scheme.
“The Northern Bank Freedom Experience Academy was designed to provide final year students - the leaders of tomorrow - with real, tangible skills that will be easily transferable upon graduation, greatly improving their employment prospects.”
