A quieter week …

As I begin writing this I’m not sure where the last week has gone or even what I’ve done (I think there might have been an awful lot of faffing around involved).

Monday evening was perhaps the highlight of my week, as Ciaran Bagnall gave a talk. He is an ex-pupil of RWCMD, having studied on the Stage Management course. He is now a lighting and set designer. I was particularly interested to hear about his work on the RSC’s recent production of ‘Othello’ (have a look at my first post on here and you’ll realize why dear reader). I hadn’t realized but he was the first person to not only design the lighting, but also the set, which might go some way to explaining why it was so visually striking. Not only did Ciaran talk about his career and ‘Othello’, but amongst the audience was Iqbal Khan, who directed ‘Othello’, as he is currently directing one of the shows in college (‘Taming of the Shrew’, I think). It was fascinating to hear the two of them talking about their work at the RSC and how they worked together.

Beyond the talk, my college timetable tells me that I spent the mornings of Tuesday to Thursday in wardrobe (I sort of remember that). This was our first trip into the world of wardrobe, so we got to wander round and look in the costume store (no one dressed up) and we learnt how to correctly measure each other (although I’m convinced a few of my measurements were wrong). We also learnt how to sew on a button (I don’t have to keep asking you now Mum, I thought you’d be pleased), as well as how to use an industrial sewing machine (I still wouldn’t say that I can ‘control’ one of those, they’re too fast!). By day three we were optimistically tasked with making a bag (I think I tried to run before I could walk). Whilst it may only be any good for tall, thin objects, such as A4 envelopes (possibly a loaf of bread if you’re lucky) it is a bag none the less (anyone looking for such a bang let me know and it can be your Christmas present).

Thursday afternoon was spent watching ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2’ (damn you Harry Potter for making two part films a ‘thing’). Whilst I enjoyed it, I spent the entire film trying to remember what had happened in part one, in particular what had happened to Peeta (perhaps it would have a been a good idea to have re-watched part one first, but never mind).

For once I had a very quiet weekend, actually staying in Cardiff for a change (I know, I was surprised too dear reader). Saturday was spent researching World War One paper props, in readiness for our props project next week. This involved re-watching ‘War Horse’ as we are basing the project on the film.

I must say that Saturday’s Doctor Who episode was rather good! I was a little unsure as to how an hour with just two characters would work, but I loved it and next week looks brilliant. Beyond that I can’t say I did anything with my weekend, sorry to disappoint.

Finally a picture of the designers' chickens (I forgot that I said I'd put a picture on, ok!)