Nicola Cutter

I haven’t done any formal studying since 2000. Four kids later, I’m coming back to education now. I joined a choir recently and rediscovered my passion for musical theatre. I actually came to a Newcastle College Open Event to find out about Musical Theatre degree courses, but when the Head of Curriculum told me about this new, free 12-week course, I thought “What have I got to lose?”

Could you tell us a bit about yourself, your background?

I haven’t done any formal studying since 2000. Four kids later, I’m coming back to education now. I joined a choir recently and rediscovered my passion for musical theatre. I actually came to a Newcastle College Open Event to find out about Musical Theatre degree courses, but when the Head of told me about this new, free 12-week course, I thought “What have I got to lose?”

What was it about this course that made you want to study here?

As it was free, and just 12 weeks long, I thought it would be a good way to find out whether technical theatre is what I actually want to do, as I’d never done anything like it before.

What benefits do you think there are in studying here?

I like the fact that it’s so central for everything. The facilities are amazing as well!

What do you enjoy the most about your course?

For being just a 12-week course, we got such an incredible range of experiences, including three or four theatre visits, as well as the opportunity to work on the set-up for Beyonce’s gig at the Stadium of Light, which was amazing!

Have you overcome any challenges either before or whilst studying?

My mental health isn’t the greatest, but someone from the Wellbeing Team here at the college is going to support me during my Foundation Degree in Live Performance Technical Production. I've also had to overcome my fear of heights as there are so many things you have to do at height in this kind of role.

What kind of support have you had?

I’ve had help from the Student Services Team on applying for financial support, as well as all the support from the Wellbeing Team.

What has been the highlight of your time studying here?

The theatre visits were all brilliant because we got to go backstage and meet the technical staff who shared their passion and enthusiasm for what they do. But really, it has got to be getting to work on the Beyonce set-up. Seeing what goes into setting up a show as big as that, and then watching it all come together, was incredible!

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about signing up for an adult course at Newcastle College?

Do it! You’ve got absolutely nothing to lose. You’ll get experiences that you never expected, and who knows where it will lead?