A university and arts organisation are working together in a new partnership which offers students access to industry-led learning during their degree studies.
The collaboration between the University of Lancashire and the Shakespeare North Playhouse on the BA (Hons) Acting degree will see students take part in an expanded programme of training with real-world experience.
They will participate in practical workshops with Shakespeare North associate artists, as well as receiving group mentoring from members of the theatre’s creative and production teams.
They will also develop performance skills inside the venue, with a graduate-year production on the Cockpit Theatre stage in June 2026.
To mark the launch, the group of 80 students attended a Q&A with CEO and creative director Lisa Allen, followed by a performance of The Tempest.
‘Artistic hub’
“At Shakespeare North Playhouse, accessibility is central to everything we do,” Ms Allen said.
“This partnership strengthens that commitment by ensuring students have meaningful, hands-on access to the industry right here in their own community.”
She added: “It’s important to us that this is a two-way partnership. We’re not only offering opportunities, we’re actively listening to what students want from a professional theatre.
“Whether it’s observing rehearsals, working with associate artists and other industry professionals, or developing their skills on the Cockpit stage, they’ll be part of a living, working artistic hub.”
‘Unparalleled access’
Jim Ingham, associate dean at the university’s school of arts and media, said the collaboration was an “amazing opportunity” for students.
“This flagship initiative is underscoring our course’s commitment to professional training and industry engagement,” he said.
“It is giving our students unparalleled access to the Cockpit Theatre and to the joys of Shakespeare, along with challenging and building the students’ performance skills and growing a network of associate artists.”
The partnership had already delivered a classical graduate showcase, he added, with further workshops planned to offer greater employability and visibility for graduates.
Follow So Lancashire on Facebook, Threads and Instagram, or email lancashire@so-counties.co.uk with story suggestions and to enquire about advertising opportunities.
