The Big Bang Fair is aimed at showing young people the opportunities there are in science, engineering, technology and maths and expects around 35000 visitors this year.The stand is very generously sponsored by White Light, Avolites, Arcola Energy and BOC.
The College's interactive stand has three areas: a performance lighting area, which has an automated lighting system comprising of a digital control platform, video screens, and some automated (moving) fixtures; a stage technology area, with computers running CAD drawing and visualisation programmes; and a performance sound area, with digital mixing desk and amplification for live mixing. These areas will all feed into a mini-stage, where visitors can create realised light and sound shows.
Science and technology are an integral part of the arts, and the arts cannot function, and would be a poorer place, without them. All their programmes reflect this, and they are hoping to bring a flavour of some of these programmes to The Big Bang Fair, thereby educating and enthusing young people and teachers about the career opportunities within live performance technologies. Rose Bruford College of Theatre and Performance is proud of the way it offers highly specialised vocational courses within a HE framework.
The 2012 Olympic Games will be a major showcase for these technologies, and the UK is recognised around the word for the excellence of its creative arts workforce. Many shows around the world are being designed, built, lit and amplified by specialists from the UK; and the UK is a real market leader in performance art technologies.
The College is keen to alert young people, their parents and teachers of these opportunities, as there currently is a skills shortage across all performance technologies providers. So being able to get in touch with young people who have a passion for Science and Technology is extremely valuable, as they prepare to make further training in the live performance industries exciting and accessible to them.
(Jim Evans)
