Shakespeare and shake-ups take centre stage in final-year performances at Royal & Derngate

It was lights, camera, action for Acting students who signed off their three years of training at the University of Northampton with stage performances at a local theatre.

As part of their final year of study, third-year students from the University’s Acting course joined together to feature in two stage productions – A Dream, and Earthquakes in London – which were on display to the public from 29-31 May at local theatre, Royal & Derngate.

The opportunity equipped them with practical experience of working collaboratively on a real-world theatre stage, as well as adding to their wealth of industry experience.

The first production directed by Barbara Houseman, Chris Bush’s ‘A Dream’ offered a unique performance of dropping classic, well-loved Shakespearean characters into a chaotic and busy modern hospital.

The second production directed by Jenna Fincken, Mike Bartlett’s Earthquakes in London weaves together the lives of three sisters – Sarah, Freya, and Jasmine – against the backdrop of a world on the brink of environmental catastrophe.

One of the actors – who took on the challenge of performing Rosalind and Pauline Quince in ‘A Dream’ – was Tiane Preuss, who said: “We’re all really pleased with how the performances went, though it all feels quite surreal as our three years of studies come to a close.

“The process of rehearsals for ‘A Dream’ took place across four weeks, and we were involved with all aspects of the performance, including composing and steering musical direction.

“I chose to study at the University of Northampton because it offered teaching of such a wide range of skills, unlike many other universities. We’ve learned stage combat, ballet, singing, radio performance, stage presence – these have all been beneficial for these final performances, as well as establishing us as well-rounded, professional actors.”

Students at the University of Northampton are regular performers at Royal & Derngate, offering third-years the annual opportunity to stage a performance alongside a full creative team, which included professional-standard hair and makeup courtesy of students from the University’s Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Stage and Screen course.

As the student actors took their final bow and exited stage left, Co-Programme Leader for Acting, Owain Rose reflected on their success: “Here at UON, we pride ourselves on training our actors to be ready for industry and as such, we set the bar high to ensure there are no surprises when these brilliant young performers step out into the real world.

“We congratulate – and are extremely proud – of each and every student up on the stage this week. They have worked hard throughout the final rehearsal periods to bring shows which moved and proved thought through their inspiring and exciting performances. A standing ovation to all!”

Find out more about studying Acting for Stage and Screen at the University of Northampton.