Student profiles
'I honestly cannot think of a better course to be on'
The fantastic thing about Film & Theatre is that you become part of a close knit group, not just your own year but with the other years in the department and also the tutors as well. There is never a dull moment on the course, there are several opportunities to enhance and further your skills. The knowledge you acquire on the critical part of the course can often feed directly into your practical work, and vice versa, and therefore you are constantly drawing from different areas of the course to make your own work the best it can possibly be. In the last two years I have learnt more than I thought possible and am still constantly learning new skills and information. I honestly cannot think of a better course to be on.
Elliot Hollings, BA Film & Theatre, second year, 2011
'I have had a fantastic time studying in the Film, Theatre & Television department'
All the tutors are passionate about their subjects and I have had a lot of fun learning from them. A particularly great aspect of the seminars is the amount we were encouraged to contribute who doesn't like talking about film?! The depth of analysis that is expected from both the English and Film, Theatre and Television departments has helped me enormously as the film critic for Radio 1, as has the range of books, films and directors we have covered. The structured but relaxed nature of discussions in class is a good balance to use on the radio and I have taken elements of the conversations we had in seminars to use on air. I really will miss studying at Reading but am grateful that my degree has directed me towards a tailor-made job and I feel far more confident in my knowledge of film as a result of studying it alongside theatre and television.
Rhianna Dhillon (BA English and Film & Theatre 2008-2011) Film Critic, BBC Radio 1
'My time at Reading completely prepared, inspired and kitted me out for my career'
The fascinating and challenging works which we studied influenced me as a performer and creator of new work, as well as imbedding in me the vital skills of analysing and critiquing artistic work. Being part of lecturer-directed research projects allowed me to develop myself as a thinking actor whilst performing in other student's productions clarified the importance of collaboration, professionalism and sharing of skills as a necessity to creating new work. The depth and intensity of the course is unrivalled from what I hear from others who have studied on similar paths. I was given the opportunity to learn about every aspect of theatre creation, and was supported thoroughly as I began to make work with my own voice.
Terry O'Donovan (BA Film & Theatre 2000-2003) Actor, Theatre Facilitator, Arts journalist and founder of dANTE OR dIE Theatre
'Studying English & Film and Theatre at Reading has been an incredibly rewarding experience'
Because of the course's interdisciplinary nature, you're given the rare opportunity to combine incisive academic study with the ability to work creatively within groups of actors, directors and technicians. While the English department offers a vast array of module choices and subject areas from which to specialise, you'll also have the opportunity develop your skills as an actor or technician in a variety of plays and productions. There is also much to enjoy from regular theatre trips to London and of course you'll make an incredible group of friends in which you can collaborate with artistically.
Lee Anderson, BA English and Film & Theatre, third year, 2011
'The staff have an outstanding ability to bring out the best in each student, having taken the time to get to know everyone individually'
Studying Television at The University of Reading does not only provide an understanding of the television medium through analytical work, but also allows students to gain their own hands on experience in practical aspects of the industry. I feel it is particularly beneficial that every student is given the opportunity to explore the many roles of a television crew, which helps to develop individual areas of interest and strength. In addition to the vocational skills taught, Television Studies brings out students' interpersonal skills which are applicable to all areas of a prospective career. I have found that group work helps to build confidence and creativity, whilst individual tasks are fundamental in encouraging independent thinking. The close relationship between students and lecturers ensures that each student receives personal guidance, creating a supportive and friendly working environment. I have particularly valued the approachable nature of staff in the department and the welcoming sense of community among students and teachers. The staff have an outstanding ability to bring out the best in each student, having taken the time to get to know everyone individually.
Olivia Witt, BA Television and Film & Theatre, second year, 2011
'My time studying Film and Theatre at Reading has been amazing'
The course was just what I wanted and expected it to be, with perfect mix between film and theatre and also the choice to go more for one than the other. The tutors really helped me to nurture my interest and talent in the film industry, and I feel I gained more than enough academic and practical experience to go out confidently in the job market. The memories and friends I have made during this course have been invaluable to me and I will never forget them.
Hayley Meagher, BA Film & Theatre, third year, 2011
'It's hard for me to single out one particular aspect of the Film and Theatre at Reading that was the most influential or best moment; because for me it was everything'
What attracted me to the course initially was the chance to study both the mediums singularly and in relation to each other. I love the amount of basic technical experience I gained in both areas; it has given me a great foundation for what Ill be encountering as I start my career. Academically I discovered a passion in critical writing on film and television, not something I expect everyone to leave with, but the deeper level of understanding and ability to research has benefited my filmmaking tenfold.
Katie Gunning, BA Film & Theatre, third year, 2011
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