BA Set Design and Production graduate prepares for a creative career in theatre and television
Ashling Ryan, a graduate of the BA Set Design and Production programme at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), is preparing to begin her career in the creative industries after gaining valuable industry experience, developing specialist skills, and building professional connections throughout her degree.
Having always enjoyed art, design and creative subjects, Ashling knew she wanted a creative career but initially wasn’t aware of the wide range of opportunities available behind the scenes in theatre, film and television. She said:
“I have always been interested in having a creative job and studied art and design throughout school and college. I also loved theatre and television but didn’t really know about the backstage career options until prop making and set design were suggested to me.”
Although she was initially unsure whether university was the right path, visiting UWTSD confirmed her decision.
“I loved the sound of the course, and after visiting the campus I knew it was where I wanted to study. The smaller class sizes meant more time with lecturers, and I liked that the campus wasn’t in a large city while still having easy access to Swansea and Cardiff.”
The broad nature of the course appealed to Ashling, allowing her to explore different disciplines before deciding where to focus her career.
“I liked that the course covered a wide range of areas, so I could try different things before specialising. I was also interested that it included both theatre and film and television, and that we experienced every stage of the design and making process, from the initial design through to seeing the finished set or costume in performance.”
When she began the course, Ashling knew she wanted to work in the industry but was still discovering which role suited her best. Throughout her studies, she explored numerous backstage disciplines, eventually developing interests in scenic art, prop making and stage management.
One of her standout memories came during her final year when students from Set Design and Production and Acting collaborated on multiple productions.
“My highlight of the course was watching everyone come together to complete our final shows. It was amazing to see how far everyone had come since we first started.”
The course also provided extensive opportunities for professional experience. Between her first and second year, Ashling spent three months in New York at a specialist performing arts camp, where she painted stage scenery and introduced young performers to scenic art techniques.
More recently, she worked with Theatr Cymru, painting the set for Miss Prydderch before touring Wales with the production as a Production Assistant (Props), gaining first-hand experience of touring theatre.
Alongside practical work, Ashling’s independent research project focused on sustainability in prop making, investigating environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional materials and methods.
“This research led me to complete Carbon Literacy training, which will benefit me as I begin my career. It also helped me make valuable contacts within the industry who share my interest in sustainability.”
Throughout her degree, Ashling also developed personally, overcoming a lack of confidence that had previously prevented her from taking on new challenges.
“One of the biggest challenges I faced was my lack of confidence. My lecturers continually encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and take on roles I never thought I could do.”
By her final year, Ashling accepted the role of Stage Manager for one of the degree productions, something she says she would never have considered during her first year.
“Stage managing one of our final shows is one of the achievements I’m most proud of.”
Reflecting on her time at UWTSD, Ashling believes the supportive environment and close relationships with staff made a significant difference to her learning experience.
“I would definitely recommend this course. You’re able to explore many different areas before specialising, and because the class sizes are small you spend a lot of time with the lecturers. Even outside timetabled sessions, they’re always easy to contact and regularly check in to see if you need anything.”
The course has equipped Ashling with practical industry experience alongside transferable skills including organisation, time management and confidence.
As she looks ahead, Ashling plans to relocate to Cardiff to pursue opportunities as a scenic artist or prop maker, while continuing to work backstage as stage crew or an Assistant Stage Manager.
“I’ve made valuable contacts in South Wales and discovered that I really enjoy backstage production work as well. I’m excited to begin my career and continue developing the skills I’ve gained throughout my time at UWTSD.”
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476