College signs news partnership with leading local theatre company

Local performing arts students will soon be acting alongside a top Cornish theatre company, thanks to an exciting new partnership.

The Creative and Digital Academy, based at Cornwall College St Austell, has signalled a new collaboration with Redruth-based Coppice Theatre, with them becoming the college’s ‘Company in Residence’ for their acting students.

On a weekly basis, the professional theatre company will help the student actors to develop their craft through a variety of industry-focused skills workshops. These will include storytelling, stage combat, singing for actors, illustration, puppetry and props making, amongst others.

Study programme manager for acting, Lydia Day, commented: “We have an excellent relationship with Coppice Theatre who support our drive to provide our students with industry experience in preparation for life after college and in the development of their skills as professional actors.

“Coppice Theatre have agreed to offer one of our students the chance to take on a paid internship with them, taking on various roles within the company from production to performance, touring the UK and performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

“Like us, they are committed, eager, and passionate about developing young talent in the local area.”

The Creative & Digital Academy is renowned for its performing arts courses, enabling students to progress to some of the country’s most prestigious specialist schools and conservatories.

The facilities, which include a professional 224-seat theatre, sprung dance studios, rehearsal and performance spaces, are the ideal starting point for any budding star.

Acting student, Tia-Louise Townsend, commented: “I am over the moon we have been given the opportunity to work so closely with Coppice Theatre!

“Having a Company in Residence is such a unique opportunity. This is a once in a lifetime chance to work with such talented and successful mentors – no other acting courses I know offers it!”

Fellow student, Crystal Jeffs, who is also enrolled in level 3 acting diploma, commented: “Coppice Theatre has been a great help to our group. From audition prep sessions to amazingly helpful career advice.”

Tia and Crystal are among the first Cornwall College St Austell students to benefit from this resourceful new partnership with Coppice Theatre.

For more on studying at the Creative & Digital Academy at Cornwall College St Austell, visit their Instagram HERE book a place on our Taster Event on January 18th 2022