Rachel Walsh graduated from our BA(Hons) Stage and Production Management in 2020. She now works as a Touring Production Assistant in the live music industry. 

What have you been doing since graduating?

Since I finished University, I decided to go freelance, working in lots of Artist Liaison roles at festivals. From there, I got into touring and now work as a Production Assistant. 

It was a nerve-wracking experience going freelance at first but it’s allowed me to be flexible in my work and take on lots of different types of jobs which have been really exciting. 

One of the proudest moments in my career so far was working on my first tour. The Production Manager swapped roles with me for one of the shows so I could gain experience in this role. From broken bones to covid cases, many of the things that could go wrong did go wrong but I dealt with each thing as it came! A lot of the crew came to me at the end of the day to tell me how well I had done. It was a really proud moment for me. 

What did you do before coming to Backstage? 

Before coming to Backstage, I studied Film, Fine Art and English Literature. I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but someone I worked with recommended I take a look into Backstage Academy. From then on, I was set on becoming a student there. 

What was your favourite part of studying at Backstage Academy? 

One of my favourite memories was in my first year of studying Stage and Production Management. It was one of our lecturer’s daughter's birthday, so we planned a mega unicorn-themed party for her. We held it in one of the studios on campus and all dressed up in unicorn onesies. However, the most memorable part was when all the unicorn onesies were delivered and we tried them on and had a lecture in them. It was then the fire alarm went off and we had to evacuate the building as unicorns! 

How did Backstage Academy help with your career development?

My lecturers were absolutely incredible on my course, I learnt everything I know from them. I think having two strong female lecturers who are well-established in the industry gave me so much confidence. They pushed me to try new things, were always ready with advice and were very honest about what to expect working in the live industry which was really helpful. 

I was also lucky enough to do lots of work experience through Backstage Academy for the duration of my degree, including two months at the Ibiza Rocks Hotel, Glastonbury and loads of other great festivals. Each opportunity built up my confidence and gave me experience so I could progress further in the industry and my career after graduating. 

What advice would you give someone who wants to study at Backstage Academy? 

The best advice I could give is to take every opportunity that comes your way. The campus is based on Production Park so you’re right in the middle of where a lot of the live industry works. Make sure you chat to as many people on site as possible and ask loads of questions, even if you think they are stupid, because there’s so much knowledge there! 

Our Stage and Production Management course is designed to develop the next generation of stage and production managers. Whether you want to work on festivals, theatre, sporting events, fashion shows or award ceremonies, this degree will prepare you for an exciting, diverse range of opportunities.