Kathryn ( Katy) Downton
Academic and research departments
Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences, Institute for Sustainability.About
Biography
Senior Lecturer in Theatre Production at Guildford School of Acting specialising in the scenic arts.
Before coming to Surrey I worked for 20 years as a freelance production creative working in theatre, events, T.V and film making props, painting sets and creating wonderful environments. For many years I taught alongside my industry career in H.E, F.E and the apprenticeship sector, and I now specialise in sustainable production practices.
As an advocate for the Theatre Green Book, I sit on their steering committee for productions and chair the Theatre Green Book Education Commitee.
ResearchResearch interests
As a Fellow of the Institute for Sustainability at the University of Surrey, I co-lead the 'Sustainability, Creativity and Communication' research programme, and my research area is the pedagogy of sustainable production practices.
My latest publication looks at the challenges and motivators that impact the application of the Theatre Green Book method in UK conservatoires.
Indicators of esteem
I was awarded the University of Surrey’s Green Impact Special award 23-24 ‘ Sustainability Hero’ for my work as sustainability champion for Guildford School of Acting.
The Association of British Theatre Technicians honored me with their ‘ Environmental Sustainability Award 2024‘ This is a prestigious award that recognises the importance of my work within a wider industry context.
Research interests
As a Fellow of the Institute for Sustainability at the University of Surrey, I co-lead the 'Sustainability, Creativity and Communication' research programme, and my research area is the pedagogy of sustainable production practices.
My latest publication looks at the challenges and motivators that impact the application of the Theatre Green Book method in UK conservatoires.
Indicators of esteem
I was awarded the University of Surrey’s Green Impact Special award 23-24 ‘ Sustainability Hero’ for my work as sustainability champion for Guildford School of Acting.
The Association of British Theatre Technicians honored me with their ‘ Environmental Sustainability Award 2024‘ This is a prestigious award that recognises the importance of my work within a wider industry context.
Teaching
I deliver on the BA Theatre Production and MA Stage & Production Management programme at Guildford School of Acting.
Externally I am an Associate Training Partner at ISLA ; the Industry body for sustainability in the events sector and I deliver training to their members .