THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE SHOW BUSINESS

The Royal Albert Hall programme gives young people experience in production The Royal Albert Hall is giving 10 young people the chance to learn from experts and produce their own show.

Applications are now open for the Young Producers scheme, a six-month crash course in programming, marketing and event management which climaxes with two nights of events at the Royal Albert Hall in April 2020.

Yvonne Shells completed the 2018 programme after finishing a medical degree, to pursue his ambition to work in the creative industries and says: “The Young Producers scheme gave me an unrivalled opportunity to learn from experts about the intricacies of what goes on behind the scenes to create a bold cultural event. I’m now developing a radio show with Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide FM.”

Past graduates of the programme, launched in 2017, have gone on to successful careers in the industry, including Zoe Lakota, who now works at the Royal Albert Hall as a freelance event coordinator.

Lakota, pictured below, says: “I learnt so much and the skills I acquired have been invaluable.”

No previous experience is needed to apply for the programme, which is open to 18- to 25-year-olds, but a passion for the arts and an interest in pursuing a career in the creative industries is essential.

While degree holders may apply, that is not a prerequisite. “There is no better preparation for a career in this industry than firsthand experience,” says Lucy Noble, artistic director at the Royal Albert Hall.

For more information, go to royalalberthall. com.