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Esme Solomon

Profession
BA Performance: Design and Practice student
College
Central Saint Martins
Person Type
Student
Esme Solomon

Biography

Esme Solomon is a third year student studying BA (Hons) Performance: Design and Practice, at Central Saint Martins.

Interview

Why did you choose to study BA (Hons) Performance: Design and Practice at Central Saint Martins?

I didn’t know about the course until I was on the foundation course and the course leader, Kate Lane, came to speak to us. I hadn’t ever thought about performance design as I didn’t know you could study it, but I was suddenly so excited by the course and the variety of opportunities and pathways.

Whilst doing my foundation, I was on the fashion communication pathway, however I was leaning towards set design, and my styling was more costume rather than fashion so BA PDP felt like a good fit for me. I have also loved performing in the past, at dance shows or school plays so the performance practice side of the course intrigued me as well.

What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on so far?

The ’We Move’ project at the end of second year was probably my favourite project so far. It was collaborative and challenging in the best ways and I learnt so much. The project brief was to fill up 5 minutes in the Platform theatre with a performance. I wanted to make a live fight scene, so I worked with a stage combat student and a Muay Thai boxer. I was so grateful for their enthusiasm, and I directed whilst they choreographed a great piece. I made costumes, projections and music as well as designing a minimalist set and lighting.

During the tech rehearsals I volunteered to assist with lighting, and I went to every tech run and learnt how to programme and run the lights. I was able to then be in the light booth watching the show and running the lights. This was so exciting for me and since then lighting has always been a huge part of my work and designs.

What important piece of advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course?

I would say to take every opportunity that is offered to you and be proactive in creating your own opportunities. We are often sent discounted tickets, extra workshops, call outs from students looking for collaborators and even the occasional work placement.

Also, the technicians are always so helpful and will provide you with so much practical knowledge if you ask. All the opportunities are there you just have to take them!

What has been the highlight of your Central Saint Martins experience?

It’s hard to pick one highlight but I’d say when I was in second year performing in 3 third year shows called CSM Alive. We put on a mini concert and I was one of the dancers. I really enjoyed working with the other performers and the thrill of performing to an audience.

During that week I also helped my friend do the makeup of 12 performers for other CSM Alive shows, so it pretty chaotic, but I enjoy that kind of chaos.

What are your career aspirations?

I have enjoyed working on both live performance and film over the duration of the course. I want to work as a theatre designer/scenographer. I love working with light design; it is always important in my work, and every time I watch live performance I fall in love.

What is the most important thing you learnt on the course?

To trust myself.

Central Saint Martins

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