Level 3 Costume student Kathryn Walker is a recipient of the prestigious Godber Theatre Foundation Prize. Set up during the pandemic, The Godber Theatre Foundation is an initiative aiming to support young people from the Hull and East Yorkshire area who are studying Drama and Theatre Arts.

“The Godber Theatre awards small number of students the opportunity to partake in the fund’s programme alongside their degree-level training in the Arts; offering them mentorship, industry seminars, professional experience and financial aid. The aim is to develop their career during and after training. ”

We spoke to Kathryn about her prize, her practice and the importance of making contacts in the arts:

Tell us about the foundation and your successful application..

The foundation brings together students studying drama or theatre practices from across the East Riding and Hull area, along with industry professionals. It offers mentorship, support and professional experiences during university study. I applied via their website and was offered a zoom interview with their founders to chat about my studies and how the foundation could help me.

How did you get involved and how do you hope it will help your practice

I was incredibly lucky to work previously with The John Godber Theatre Company, so have always kept a close eye on what the company is doing. They set up the Foundation during lockdown, so I decided to apply for this academic year’s cohort. I felt the extensive knowledge held by the members and patrons of the foundation would be really beneficial to me, as networking is the most important way to start a career in this field after studying. I also wanted to meet other creatives from my local area, allowing me to understand more about theatre practices as a whole.

Tell us about any projects that you are working on 

I have just finished working on The Great Murder Mystery by The Lost Estate Theatre Company opening near London Bridge. In a few weeks, I will be undertaking work experience at Parkinson Gill Theatrical Costumiers in Birmingham, which I’m really excited about!

How is The Northern School of Art special for you? 

I knew straight away that The Northern School of Art was the right place to study for me, I didn’t find anywhere else the quality of teaching and facilities available! The friendly and supportive atmosphere that comes from the whole campus was unbeatable, and I have thrived over the past two years studying here.

Any advice for fellow creatives? 

Don’t be afraid to get in touch with people! Networking is so important to build a career in theatre.

Check out Kathryns designs on her instagram: @kathrynwalkerdesign or contact her for collaborations at kathrynwalker26@hotmail.com!

Are you interested in designing for characters? Our BA (Hons) Costume Interpretation with Design degree is set in the thriving filming locations of the North East with great links to industry leaders in costume. Apply now to receive full training in the skills, techniques and craft you need to create superb costume for film, television, theatre and performance as well as beautiful evening and bridal wear, including, costume & clothing design, millinery (hat-making), tailoring, leatherwork – leather moulding/embossing, mask-making and corsetry!