ABOUT LAURA
Degree: BA (Hons) Live Events Production
Desired Location: I will be based in Brighton for the foreseeable future. I have quick transport links into London and surrounding areas. I am willing to relocate wherever work may take me - I love to travel!
Strengths: Working under pressure. Organisation. Time management. Social Skills / Communication. Problem solving. Working long / unsociable hours. Commitment.
Dream role: Touring crew: Backline, Guitar Tech, Lighting Operator or Artist Management / Logistics.
Dream Project: Starting up my own events company.
In 5 years time... I'd like to be happy and successful in a job I love!
Laura has a very creative and thoughtful and approach to her work. She has developed her artistic approach to lighting design in her 3rd year by delving into some depth to research concepts and draw inspiration.
Johnny Goodwin, Course Leader for BA (Hons) Live Events Production
If you would like to contact Laura about an opportunity, please email us and we will connect you with her.
Question Time...
What first attracted you to a career within the live events industry?
Growing up I was always a musical kid since picking up my first instrument around the age of nine. My love for playing and creating with others stemmed from this and in addition my interest in music. I occasionally performed in front of large crowds however I struggled badly with nerves and anxiety at the time, which in turn led me down the route of event production. Attending my first concert at the age of thirteen was another big influential point in my life, I loved how it unified people, how the music brought people from all walks of life together and created a sense of belonging. I recall being in awe of the technical aspects like lighting, sound and video which led me to my current career path.
What first attracted you to Backstage Academy?
From the age of 16-18 I studied Live Events & Promotion at college in Brighton, towards the end of my final year I decided to take it to the next level and continue my education in events. Backstage seemed ideal for me and was exactly what I was looking for. I wanted hands-on practical learning and experience.
What first attracted you to the course you studied?
My previous college course led me to studying Live Events Production at Backstage Academy. I loved my time at college and wanted to continue studying this area.
What were the highlights during your time at Backstage Academy?
Meeting like-minded people and having the opportunity to gain experience in a professional working environment. Opportunities such as working as crew for OTR II in the Olympic stadium, Gron Koncert and BBC Biggest Weekend would be my favourite highlights from Backstage Academy.
What work experience have you had during your time at Backstage Academy?
- Warehouse assistant: LS-Live Warehouse
- Assistant Stage Manager: AAA, Stdio 01
- Stage Crew: BBC Biggest Weekend
- Lighting Operator / build crew: JustOne
- Local Crew: ORT II
- Touring Crew: Gron Koncert
- Stage Crew for BBC Introducing stage: Highest Point Festival
- Studio Assistant for Hugh Jackman: Studio 001
Which companies have you worked with/for during your time at Backstage Academy?
I have worked for various companies at my time with Backstage Academy which has also provided me outside connections. Some of these companies include:
- Event Cover
- Skiddle
- Stage Miracles
- Bespoke Events
- BBC Introducing
- Craig Ward Lighting
- Up North
- Music Consortium
- Artist Needs
- BBC Events
- Brilliant Stages
- Usual Suspects
- AC Crewing
- Enteetainment LTD
- Rock-tech
- S.J.M Concerts
- Festival Republic
- Live Nation
- Newsubstance
What is your proudest achievement from your time at Backstage Academy?
My proudest moment is definitely completing Gron Koncert, my first international tour. The tour spanned two weeks with each show being in a different location. I found the tour to be mentally and physically challenging but it provided me with a strong sense of pride and achievement which improved my self confidence and crew skills significantly. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and will always fondly remember it.
