In Term 1 we were delighted to share the news that Year 11 student Ellie had been selected as a Melbourne Theatre Company (MTC) Ambassador.
Ellie has joined a group of 16 students from around Victoria who have embarked on a year-long extension program which offers insight into the world of professional theatre.
“Each month we attend an MTC production, meet with artists and staff, and share our experiences of theatre with the other student Ambassadors,” said Ellie.
The program commenced in April this year and Ellie recently attended her first session where the students saw the MTC production A View from the Bridge.
“After the show, we went backstage and met the stage managers which was amazing,” said Ellie. “We were able to ask questions and also had the opportunity to walk around on stage.”
Ellie (back row, right) with the cast and crew of the 2019 Student Production, Family Reunion.
Ellie was nominated for the program by St Michael’s Head of Dance and Drama, Ms Kathryn Lucas and Theatrical Productions Manager, Mr Callum Dale.
“Ellie has shown an admirable level of maturity working on productions with fellow students, staff and external professionals,” said Ms Lucas. “Ellie is exceptionally capable in production and has excellent leadership skills and this year she was appointed to the position of Technical Drama Captain a position usually reserved for Year 12 students.”
Ellie aspires to work professionally in theatre production and has a keen interest in stage management and lighting design.
The opportunity to be an ambassador to MTC has confirmed my desire to pursue further study in this area. My goal is to study a Bachelor of Fine Art (Production and Design) at the Victoria College of the Arts.Ellie, Year 11
The ambassador program will enable Ellie to create networks within the industry, observe professionals and develop her skills.
“As an aspiring theatre maker, Ellie will greatly benefit from the program through being challenged, broadening her knowledge, meeting other like-minded peers, and gaining a further understanding of various aspects of theatre,” said Mr Dale. “It is our hope that Ellie will return from each Ambassador session inspired by the new processes and ideas introduced to her.”
Upon completion of the program, Ellie will be invited to join the MTC Young Grads initiative. The initiative was developed to extend the MTC experience and help Ambassadors to stay connected.
We congratulate Ellie on being selected and wish her all the best for her year with MTC.
