Leeds City College opens its doors for first ever performing arts fair

Leeds City College’s Quarry Hill Campus will be home to a unique Performing Arts, Music and Production Arts Higher Education Fair on 29 September, as part of a drive to enhance opportunities for creative applicants.

Member of Luminate Education Group, Leeds Conservatoire, is working in partnership with the Federation of Drama Schools and Conservatoires UK to run the event, which has been organised in a bid to bridge the gap in events dedicated to conservatoire and drama school education.

Aimed at individuals interested in further study or training at a drama school or conservatoire, the fair will feature stands and workshops from some of the country’s leading performing arts institutions. Prospective applicants, parents, teachers and advisors are invited to discover specialist training opportunities, available options and advice from industry experts.

Emily Knox, Acting Head of Student Recruitment at Leeds Conservatoire, said: “Many students face difficulties when considering higher education performing arts options, as visiting a number of open days, particularly in London, can be extremely expensive. We wanted to create a central northern hub where like-minded, talented individuals can come together to explore alternatives to traditional university courses.

“We hope this pioneering event will be the first of many, with the aim of running these fairs regularly in cities across the country at further education colleges, art centres and theatres. By engaging with bright, enthusiastic applicants, we can raise the profile of alternative higher education performing arts opportunities.”

Workshops will be available in acting, musical theatre, dance, costume, scenic arts, sound, live events, filmmaking, directing and music.

Richard Lee, Head of Media, Music and Performance Production at Leeds City College, added: “Leeds City College is committed to inspiring creative minds and we’re constantly looking for ways to innovate. Therefore, the opportunity to deliver a one-stop shop for performing arts options at our Quarry Hill campus is phenomenal.

“Applicants will have the opportunity to benefit from our fantastic campus facilities for workshops and visit a diverse range of specialist providers who will be offering insight on courses, entry requirements, audition masterclasses and taster sessions.”

Attendees can choose to book a session from 9.30am to 12.30noon, 12.30noon to 4pm or 4pm to 7.30pm. Find out more about the event, booking details and institutions attending the event by visiting federationofdramaschools.co.uk/whats-on/careers-event-2021.