Technical theatre students based in Ellesmere Port had the chance to get up close to top notch kit.

The West Cheshire College students were invited to take part in a demo day with innovative lighting company Robe Lighting.

The company, which manufactures for the professional entertainment and leisure, architectural and ‘themed environment’ industries, led a full day’s workshop at the Sutton Way campus.

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Angie Berwick, programme leader for events and technical theatre at the college, said: “As part of our study programme in technical theatre it is extremely important that our students gain experience and knowledge of working with leading industry technology and equipment.

“Therefore we were delighted to welcome Robe Lighting to West Cheshire College and for our students to learn more about their products.

“The day was designed to show students a variety of Robe fixtures and teach them about the different applications specifically about use in theatrical lighting.”

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More than 25 students took part including William Blackie, 16, from nearby Eastham who is currently in his first year studying technical theatre at the college.

Technical theatre students at West Cheshire College, Ellesmere Port took part in a demo day with a leading industry equipment supplier. Andy Webb theatre consultant with Robes Lighting. Pic provided by WCC.
Technical theatre students at West Cheshire College, Ellesmere Port took part in a demo day with a leading industry equipment supplier. Andy Webb theatre consultant with Robes Lighting. Pic provided by WCC.

He said: “It was a really interesting day as we had the chance to see first hand Robe’s new equipment.

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“I love my course and it’s great that we get the opportunity to learn direct from leading manufacturers in the industry. Once I finish at college, I am hoping to go on to an apprenticeship with an events company.”

Mature student Elaine Devaney from Little Sutton, who was also involved in the day and is in her final year, added: “The technical theatre course is amazing, as a mature student it has given me the opportunity to learn new skills that will lead me onto a new career.

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“Once I finish the course I have already been accepted onto the Emerging Artists Programme with Hope Street in Liverpool which I am very excited about starting this summer.”

Amy Schofield, the company’s product demonstrator, who led the workshop along with Andy Webb, the firm’s theatre consultant, commented: “We were both extremely impressed by the students at West Cheshire College and it was a pleasure to meet them. They all showed a passion and keenness to succeed in the industry.”