Graduate Destinations: Katie Thompson, Classical and Contemporary Text
Katie Thompson: MA Classical and Contemporary Text, 2023
What are you working on at the moment?
I’ve been working on my first show in London, a new piece of writing called Forgotten in the Land of Egypt by award-winning writer, Tom Murray.
The play has been published by Methuen drama and it has been a dream come true as it has been printed with my director’s note included. The piece is produced by Mango Ensemble and it will tour East Anglia this spring.
What were your first jobs after graduating?
I directed Cinderella, a pantomime at Diss Corn Hall. I also directed a new piece of writing for Norwich Theatre called Weeds and an adaptation of The Turn of the Screw as part of Sheringham Little Theatre’s Repertory Season.
Any career highlights?
I was chosen by Complicité to be one of the Artists in Residence on their Mudlarks International Residency 2024.
How did RCS prepare you for the industry?
Because there were only three directors on the course, I didn’t stop directing for the whole year. This practical training was invaluable and covered so many different types of theatre.
We also got to study directing for film. I made some great industry connections and met collaborators. I was lucky enough to get a work placement Assistant Directing for Becky Hope Palmer (RCS alumna) on Bloodbank by Meghan Tyler at A Play, A Pie and a Pint.
Throughout the course, I had lots of workshops with industry professionals. I also got to direct a production at the end of the year that mirrored the process and production team that you would have in the industry.
What did you enjoy most about your studies?
I really enjoyed working on my final piece, Nina Raine’s, Consent. Another highlight would be the month’s residency at Shakespeare’s Globe.
Learning from incredible teachers on the course, assisting director Marc Silberschatz and making amazing friends and memories that I’ll cherish forever.
Does anything stand out from your training that you’ve carried into your professional life?
My preparation process for productions. My work etiquette. How I work in the rehearsal room. The rigour that is encouraged when thinking about a vision for a production.
What would you say to those thinking about studying at RCS?
Do it. I learnt so much. It was the best decision I ever made, and I really miss being there.
Interested in studying on the MA/MA Classical and Contemporary Text Acting/Directing programme?
Visit the course webpage for everything from entry requirements to course structure.
Main image © Andi Sapey