Alessandro Rossetti
"It’s a privilege to work in a community of professionals who constantly strive to achieve the best possible results, through the common belief that what we do is special and everlasting."
Course
Stage and Production Management MAGraduation year
2019Choosing Surrey
The University of Surrey’s Guildford School of Acting is considered one of the leading schools in the UK, in the field of theatre. The courses are run by professionals with vast experience in their field. Separately, Guildford’s proximity to London allowed me to interact with theatre professionals and employers in London’s West End.
My favourite memory at Surrey
My strongest memory was when I received an email from the English National Opera that kickstarted my career. My placement with them led to a job offer as an Assistant Stage Manager at the London Coliseum. Soon after the placement ended, I was offered my first job with Balich Worldwide Shows, as Assistant Stage Manager, for the opening ceremony of the 30th Summer Universiade at the San Paolo stadium in Naples. I was also awarded the Internationalisation Award from my Faculty and I couldn’t be prouder of my achievements.
My course
Firstly, being able to improve my technical and practical skills, such as prop making, carpentry, set building and painting. Secondly, I enjoyed exchanging and sharing knowledge and educational backgrounds among my classmates from different parts of the world.
I also enjoyed the ability to speak with academics about my professional development and my CV for the theatre industry. My lecturers were always available when I asked for guidance and support.
Life after Surrey
I work as a Stage Manager in large-scale events and opera productions, with lots of experience at different companies. I‘ve had the opportunity to work on two shows in two stadiums, in Italy and Saudi Arabia, with Balich Worldwide Shows – the leading company in Olympic ceremonies and other shows. It’s a privilege to work in a community of professionals who constantly strive to achieve the best possible results, through the common belief that what we do is special and everlasting.
Advice for students
Firstly, make contacts and understand how the industry is structured. Secondly, be ready to adapt to a range of different theatre jobs. Any job that puts you on a stage will help you to have a holistic vision of work for your future career.
Discover more about our courses in theatre and performing arts, including our Stage and Production Management MA.
