Havering College fashion student goes behind the scenes at Queen’s Theatre panto

Fashion student Rebecca Roberts was given the opportunity to find out what happens backstage at the Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch.

Rebecca, 17, completed a week’s work experience in the wardrobe department, helping to make, alter and fit costumes for the theatre’s forthcoming panto, Robin Hood, which is playing from this Thursday 28th November to Sunday 5th January.

The second year student, based at our Ardleigh Green campus, said: “I have been making, hemming and adjusting the guards’ costumes. It’s been great, really busy, and I’ve enjoyed the work and seeing what happens behind the scenes. I’m looking forward to going and seeing the Panto and spotting the costumes that I helped to make!”

Queen’s Wardrobe Manager Nicola Thomas said: “Rebecca has been so helpful to us at this very busy time of year with the panto just about to start. It has also given her a good insight into the type of work that goes on.”

Two of Rebecca’s fellow students on the Fashion course, Asanti Johnson and Maica Da Silva, also benefited from a week’s work experience at the theatre.

The college’s Work Placement Coordinator Linda Hammond said all three students who assisted with the costumes would have their names printed in the panto programme, which would be great for their CVs.

To book tickets for Robin Hood at the Queen’s Theatre click here

In another boost for potential employment opportunities, Caliston Ltd, a Digital Marketing company, came in to talk to Media, Animation, Games and IT students at our Ardleigh Green campus.

Since September, Caliston have had 10 students undertake work experience with them – with an ongoing plan to have 2 students a week.

Students can get advice and information about the many work experience opportunities available by visiting Linda and the team at Ardleigh Green and also The CUBE team at the Sixth Form. These placements provide good industry knowledge and often lead to apprenticeships.