Student Spotlight - Abi Strachan
With a growing demand for well-trained, capable support, there are no shortage of behind-the-scenes opportunities in the theatre and events industry.
Technical Theatre courses at UHI Perth allow you to gain hands-on experience in ➡️ lighting and sound systems; stage management; set design and construction; and audio-visual systems; and enjoy valuable work experience with established venues across the region.
Having not long started on the course, Abi shares her experience so far.
Can you introduce yourself?
Abi Strachan and I am from Aberdeenshire.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth?
Technical Theatre and Production Arts and I am in the first year of the course.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I was looking for places that offer a technical theatre course and came across UHI Perth. It was one of the few places that offer a very diverse technical theatre course covering all areas of the industry.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was in my last year of the academy, doing my advanced Highers and an NPA course in Technical Theatre in Practice at Nescol.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I picked this course because of how hands-on it is, and how there isn’t a big exam at the end- it’s a continual assessment. Also, how involved we can get with all of the shows that are happening in the theatre.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
I love the practicality of the course and how creative we can be with the set design for the shows. I also love being able to work with the actors - getting to know them, it makes it seem more like we are working in the industry.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
As I have only been in my course for a few months, the most memorable moment would be when our lecturer was introducing to us all of the power tools that we would be using over the time in the course. I believe over the rest of the course I will gain so many more memories from my classmates and also lecturers.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I have built up my skills in problem-solving, which will help me in the future because of all the challenges techs face when working in the theatre industry.
Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I have not yet undertaken a work placement through my course, but I am scheduled to later on in my course.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
My lecturers are very supportive and are always there if we have any queries or questions.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I haven’t currently gained any achievements in my time at UHI, but I have achieved my young leader missions and awards through Scouting, alongside my DofE Bronze and Chief Scout Platinum Award. I have been in scouting for nearly twelve years.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
I love how there is a climbing wall in the ASW because I am a big climbing fan, and I am part of the student climbing club. I also love the size of the theatre and how it can be transformed into any theatre type we desire.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I have enjoyed my time so far studying at UHI and I can't wait to continue my studies over the next two to three years. Making new friends that I can call family is the biggest highlight.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I am part of the climbing club and go climbing with a few friends every Tuesday night.
I am also apart of West Perth Explorers as I finish up my time in Explorers before I turn 18 and become a leader at either the Cubs or Beavers. Back home, I am already a young leader of my Scout group at home in Aberdeenshire.
Blair Atholl Jamborette 2024
I also love to paint, read, and go to musicals and plays.
This is me at the stage door with my favorite Heathers the Musical actor.
What are your future career plans?
My future career plan is that I am hoping to either become a stage designer/ working in set construction and painting or become a stage manager. Hopefully working in either the west end or the National Theatre of Scotland.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
I would say that it is a very inclusive and fun environment and doesn’t feel as stressful as other universities because it is structured as a college which takes the pressure off as well. It is also a beautiful campus and just an amazing place with amazing people.
