Meet Josefine Bruun Meyer
As part of Central’s Keep Creating Appeal, we’re speaking to students who have received Scholarships and Bursaries whilst studying at Central, to showcase the impact that these have on them, and their future careers.
Josefine Bruun Meyer is a second year BA (Hons) Theatre Practice - Stage Management student, she spoke with us about what led her to studying at Central, what drew her to becoming a stage manager, and her work on the stage production of Disney’s The Lion King.
What are you currently working on?
This term, I am the stage manager for Central’s production of Richard III. Outside of Central, I am currently work as a deputy dresser on Disney’s The Lion King, and am preparing to undertake a placement with Opera Holland Park this summer.
What led to your interest in stage management?
I love working with people and facilitating creative challenges, so stage management is really exciting as I get to be a little involved in everything. It feels like I’m finally getting to turn theory into practice, and putting that practice to the test. Working on The Lion King is a dream come true - it’s incredible to see the over 100 people-strong backstage team work together across departments, and to be able to compare this to how much of the theory we practice in smaller teams at Central.
What does a typical working day look like for you at the moment?
I love that every day is varied, so it’s hard to specify what a ‘typical’ working day looks like – every typical day is different! But it’s a fun challenge and with about a month to go till production week it’s keeping me busy. I occasionally work on The Lion King in the evenings and weekends. I strive to have a healthy work/life balance, something I think is hard when we suddenly find ourselves turning our hobby into our career. Often my time off is spent preparing for other projects, or practicing my score reading for my summer placement.
You received a Scholarship or Bursary, what impact has this had on you and your studies?
It has taken a lot of stress away, and allowed me to focus on my studies and work a job I love and enjoy, rather than needing to work for the money. University and studying is free in Denmark, where I am from, and choosing to come to Central was a big step, mainly because of the cost implications. As a first generation university student, the bursary has meant that choosing to pursue my dreams in another country doesn’t have a negative financial impact on myself, or my family.
What would you say to those thinking of donating funds to help create Scholarships and Bursaries for Central’s students?
I would say that it is the best idea, ever. Not only is it a wonderful to support students pursuing their dream in a field that is often discouraged for financial reasons, but you are also directly helping break down barriers for low-income students, and diversifying the theatre and university environment. Not only that - but you also get a very tangible benefit back, in getting to follow the student you are supporting, and watching the productions and work they take part in.
What advice would you have for anyone looking to follow in your footsteps?
Don’t hesitate to reach out to anyone and everyone and ask for help. Almost everyone I have met within the industry is so willing to teach their tricks and help shape the new generation of theatre makers.
You can follow Josefine on Instagram, or connect with her on LinkedIn.
Central’s Keep Creating Appeal raises vital funds for Scholarships and Bursaries to support our students.
