| « Previous Index Next » |
BITING DOG THEATRE FESTIVAL - Media Trainee Diary
 |
|
|
|
June 2, 2008
Hey. My name is Melissa and I am the Media Trainee for The Biting Dog Theatre Festival 2008. Firstly, I will begin by saying a little bit about myself. I am currently studying a Bachelor of Arts at La Trobe University Wodonga, but I am hoping to further my study at the Victorian College of the Arts Melbourne where I plan to study a Bachelor of Dramatic Art (Acting). I have always had a strong passion and interest in the theatre, which is ultimately what I am aspiring to. After performing at the Butter Factory Theatre Wodonga in 2007 as part of a university assignment, I experienced the different aspects of the theatre, be that lighting, sound etc. This was an opportunity for me to broaden my interest in the theatre. However, the media aspect of the theatre has been a first for me and I am enjoying the learning experience immensely.
The traineeship has been so much fun, enjoyable, and is different all the time. The first week of my traineeship has taught me a lot already. I have had the opportunity to watch, photograph and document the participants’ performances, where each proves to be quite different and the ideas amazingly unique. Also, I have met and briefly interviewed the technical trainees who are just as enthused and excited as I am about the opportunities and learning experiences the traineeship entails. I recently interviewed HotHouse Theatre Festival Director, Sebastien Pasche who was very interesting to talk to.
I have specifically enjoyed watching the performances and then talking with the participants to see what their ideas were and what was difficult etc. Also, working with the people at HotHouse Theatre has been extremely fun. They have all been helpful and welcoming. Heather has taught me a lot about marketing coverage, interviewing etc and has been great to work with. Overall I have enjoyed working amongst a professional team and have benefited so much from it. I look forward to see what the rest of my traineeship brings!
June 9, 2008
I have now completed my second week of my Media Traineeship with the Biting Dog Theatre Festival. The last week has been so busy and so much fun.
On Friday, we had a media call which was great for the festival. I have also recently written a spread sheet for The Border Mail in the Education Mail. I found this particular experience very interesting. I got to interview the technical trainees, HotHouse Theatre Festival Director, Sebastien Pasche and take head-shots of the trainees. I have also helped write the media releases for the festival regarding the nightly performances. This has been challenging but very rewarding.
One of my favourite parts of my Media Traineeship is watching the diversity and uniqueness in each performance. I originally thought that having the one neutral script would be restrictive for the 22 schools and youth groups participating in the festival. However I have been pleasantly surprised with the range of ideas, from comedies to the more thought provoking interpretations. I have also been left amazed at the talent and imagination that the participants possess.
The first group of performances start on Wednesday the 11th of June, which is exciting. I will be ushering for a few shows and cannot wait to see the progress of the participants from their technical rehearsals. I have no doubt in my mind that each school and youth group will give 100% into their final performances. Chookas!!
Melissa Humphreys
 Printer-Friendly Version  Email This Page |
« Previous Index Next » |