Students on the new UAL Performance and Production Arts Course at Carmel College have been enjoying a variety of tutor and specialist led workshops this term.

Activities have included special effects make up tutorials by make-up artist Emily Walsh, casting and audition workshops led by Adrian Hall, Principal of the prestigious drama school, ALRA; professional head-shots created by visiting photographer Iain Cash and music composition workshops by local poet and pianist Paul Delaney. Theatre Producer, Amy Fisher, from Box of Tricks Company also visited the college to talk about theatre companies and roles in the industry.

"Students have been experiencing all things performance nonstop since they joined us in September," says their tutor. "The new UAL course at Carmel College, provides the students with all the skills, support and learning they need to enter the industry through a really colourful programme of events." The students, known as the Pathways Production Company, have visited theatres in Liverpool and experienced back-stage specialist tours, and have themselves provided several performances at Carmel College in their own Dalton Theatre already this term

Students on the course received free one-to-one singing lessons from the talented Carmel Rourke, classical singer and teacher. Students developed their skills which was seen to great effect in their show 'Winter Wonderland', a seasonal variety show performed to both schools and public audiences.

Later on in the term, the Remembrance Day Service was an opportunity for the students to use their talents in respect of this significant date. Students from the course also performed at the prestigious Education Awards evening providing fabulous entertainment between the awards being presented.

Towards the end of the term, the students performed a devised piece of theatre, entitled 'Matchstick Memories' based on traditional fairy tales but with a twist. The students provided the Script, Design, Music and Dance in a fascinating take on the world of 'The Little Matchstick Girl'.

In contrast, the students also took part in entertaining over 200 excited Primary School children when Kitty K Rhymes visited Carmel to share extracts from her new children's book. Students on the Performance and Production Arts course performed extracts from 'Matilda', as well as street dancing, live piano, singing as well as contemporary dance. The children loved it!

"There are so many performance opportunities to help build confidence and have a taste of the industry" (Anna McWilliams)

"3 months isn't a long time but after all the workshops and trips we have really enjoyed it! It feels like I have gained a years' worth of experience" (Abby O'Connor)