As with any university society, the Edinburgh University Theatre Company has its cliques, and this is a beginner’s guide to getting involved. Whether you are an aspiring actor, writer, director, producer, or would prefer to be part of the crew behind the scenes, the university’s theatre societies have something to offer you.
Firstly, you must be proactive! Follow the Bedlam Theatre Instagram, as well as individual theatre societies such as Footlights, Theatre Paradok, the Edinburgh University Savoy Opera Group (EUSOG), or the Shakespeare Company (EUSC). Through these profiles, you will be notified about any upcoming student theatre productions — with dates for auditions, crew sign-ups, and all the information you could need.
Don’t know anyone? Don’t care. Bedlam Theatre, arguably the home of Edinburgh student theatre, organises ‘Bedlam families’ at the start of the academic year, offering you a community in which you can meet like-minded theatre lovers of all ages. By creating a small network, you will find out about more events and shows than you otherwise would, and let’s face it: it is always nice to have someone to watch shows with too.
If you’re in first year and feeling overwhelmed by the talent around you and the endless opportunities, why not look into the Freshers’ Plays? Bedlam Theatre puts aside three nights in October for first years to showcase their writing skills and perform in. Whilst many first years can find it tricky to break into theatre, this is a great way to meet other freshers and demonstrate your abilities.
If you continue to have no luck with auditions, why not propose your own play at a General Meeting? You will need a director, a producer and a clear vision to present.
Certainly, most fresher-specific opportunities are in the first term but — going into this term — the Candlewasters Theatre Company is one to watch. They have a biannual showcase of new student writing, during which their 18 actors present in an episodic structure. If you’re looking to try your hand at acting, writing or directing, audition for this company next year!
If you fancy yourself as a comedian — or just need some comic relief from the dark winter — go and watch the incredible Improverts perform on a Friday. Occasionally, they host workshops on Sundays to test out and train up future Improverts. If you would prefer to make jokes from inside the tech box, you are also strongly encouraged to experiment at a workshop. Impress them with your improv and you could land yourself a weekly gig!
If you’d like to critique theatre, head over to The Student’s theatre section and start reviewing the plethora of shows on offer.
My final piece of advice is: audition, audition, audition! You miss every shot you don’t take. It can be exhausting and disappointing, but ask for feedback in the face of rejection. Theatre can be a cruel mistress, but don’t forget your love of the game. However, if you don’t enjoy adrenaline-spiking auditions, Footlights’ Footwork hosts dance and singing non-audition workshops on Thursdays.
A final reminder to all: the Edinburgh Fringe auditions for theatre societies such as Footlights and EUSOG are coming up this term. Break a leg!
Photo by Marla MacCallum Hall from EUTC’s Candlewasters Autumn Showcase