Ellen Buckley

What is your name and what did you study?

My name is Ellen Buckley, and I studied BA honours in Drama and Theatre Studies, and a Masters in Drama.

Why did you choose Chester?

I chose to study at Chester because the location was close to home, which meant I could work alongside my studies as well as being in a beautiful city! I also liked how the course offered an insight into so many different aspects of Drama. There were opportunities for stage performance, acting for camera, pedagogy, applied theatre, site specific, live art and many other avenues to explore the arts.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

The thing I enjoyed most about my course was the growth and exploration I was able to achieve. Starting as a naturalistic stage performer, university enabled me to explore the realms of performance art which led to a keen interest in live art, something I’d never experienced before. The course also allowed me to gain experience working with the community and leading me into a teaching role, which is something I’d always been passionate about. A particular highlight of the course was completing an overnight endurance piece with another student which was live streamed, and it was the first time this has been done at Creative Campus, Kingsway!

Do you have any advice for someone who is thinking about a career in the arts?

My advice for someone wanting a career in the arts is be prepared to work hard, be challenged, and constantly grow and evolve as a performer. It’s important to not only put in the time and dedication into your studies but also get involved in other experiences which are offered to you.

What graduate role have you commenced? What area(s) are you working in and what does this entail day-to-day?

Since graduating I’ve moved into the education sector, taking on roles such as class teaching support, performing arts tutor and lecturer. These roles have been permanent, contracted and self-employed. Outside of education, I work as an event director for a professional murder mystery company.

How did your time at Chester prepare you for your current role?

Chester equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to move onto a teaching role. It provided me with experiences to work with children and adults, as well as gaining an understanding of how to create workshops and exercises to lead with a variety of groups. The course grew me as a stage performer and enriched me with new and explorative ways to express as a performance artist.

Did you take part in any extracurricular activities, societies, or internships while studying?

Whilst studying I was also a member of the Drama Society and took on a role of the committee in my third year. I also worked as a volunteer for the University, which meant that I had the chance to work with 2engage and volunteer as a workshop leader for Cheshire Young Carers.