Students learn how to build a successful career in entertainment from the pros

An event production company has given students in Coventry the script to success in the entertainment industry after joining them on campus.

Event and performance professionals from production specialists Area 51 visited Coventry College to speak to Level 3 Dance & Musical Theatre and Level 3 Acting students about opportunities in the industry and how to build a successful career in entertainment.

The visit began with an introduction to the company and some top tips for performing in their scare mazes, and extending an invite for students to gain work experience in their upcoming Halloween events.

The professionals ran through a typical working day and explained the hard work and practice that goes into delivering a live scare maze performance over 20 times per night.

The visitors were then split into two groups and given the chance to show off their acting skills – choosing the perfect level of terror for different visitor age groups, and showcasing a zombie transformation.

Area 51 staff members also held one-to-one question and answer sessions for learners about their careers and advice after leaving college.

Area 51 will host multiple events across the region this month including House of Horror at Whatton House in Loughborough and Satan’s Slammer in Bedworth, with learners given the chance to feature as prisoners, butchers, witches and zombies to tell the story of their characters and, in some cases, scare their captive audience.

Actor and Performer Coordinator at Area 51 Paul Aleksandr said: “Thank you so much for the day at the College.”

“It was welcoming and great to see so many enthusiastic students get involved in the talk, activities and to show their enthusiasm in many ways.”

Coventry College Performing Arts Teacher Katie McDonagh said:

“It was fantastic having Area 51 come to us and bring work experience to life for our students, it has given the students a buzz before they head out later next month.”