Whether you are new to Oxford or not, the University drama scene can be an intimidating place. We are surrounded by a constant stream of high-quality productions, with over thirty each term and many also spilling over into the vacation. The variety of student drama is unparalleled, ranging from classics to edgy new writing. Most importantly, however, is the strong encouragement and support of independent groups, which gives Oxford a truly unique quality. For this reason you may be a little hesitant when it comes to getting started, but once you know the ropes there is a massive opportunity for first class experience in a number of areas.
OUDS
The Oxford University Drama Society is your first stop for getting stuck in, and a key resource for your theatrical career. It is very quick and easy to create a profile through the website (www.ouds.org). This will give you access to current news, other members and most importantly, the jobcentre, which publishes advertisements for actors, producers, marketing teams and other forms of assistance. OUDS is also a funding body for student drama, interviewing prospective production and marketing teams each term and providing financial assistance to a large number of shows.
Acting
Darling wannabe thespians, in the words of one veteran of the Oxford stage, primarily to go for it, go for absolutely everything. Audition away and the more you do, the more chance you have of getting a part. Secondly, have confidence in yourself, because if you start off by doubting yourself and thinking that you won’t be able to get into a play then you won’t get far. You must have absolute faith in your abilities. Thirdly, learn the importance of constructive criticism and not losing heart. Rejection happens – just pick yourself up, dust yourself down and start all over again!
Events
Oxford has two key dramatic events: Cuppers and the New Writing Festival. The Cuppers competition is run by OUDS and is exclusively for Freshers, encouraging newcomers to prepare a short piece, up to thirty minutes long, whether it is a snippet of Shakespeare or new-writing. Most vitally, Cuppers provides the structure and support needed to make a mark on the drama scene, work alongside OUDS and meet some of the people involved. The New Writing Festival giving budding writers the chance to see their creations on stage, out of which four finalists are chosen to be performed.
Theatres
The Oxford Playhouse, New Theatre, Burton Taylor Studio, and Old Fire Station are amongst the big names venues in the centre of town, varying in size and character. The Playhouse and the New Theatre attract mainstream professional shows, while BT and OFS cater to student theatrics. Individual college theatres, such as Keble’s O’Reilly and Wadham’s Moser, are also regular locations for performances. In the summer drama often moves outdoors, into college gardens and the University Parks. This diverse collection of venues offers an extensive choice and guarantees a wide ranging experience.
Reviewing
Those who can, act, those who can’t are critics, and Oxford caters perfectly to these cuddly types in the form of its two main newspapers, OxStu and Cherwell. The main difference between the two is that the latter is to be read, while the former is, at best, to be used as kindling, or perhaps as a cat litter-box lining. The perks of the job include free tickets and often free drinks, although admittedly being a critic, you will have already ostracised most of your friends and thus won’t have anyone to take with you to such wonderful events. But there’s much joy to be had striking fear into actors with a well-timed raised eyebrow or a stifled grimace.
Backstage
If your interest lies in directing, producing or marketing then one of the best things you can do is to seek like-minded others and form a team, applying together to a theatre. Watch out for shadowing chances which will regularly appear on the jobcentre, as these provide an excellent opportunity to gain first-hand experience. Joining existing teams is another great way of getting involved, whether your talent lies in realising artistic visions or handing out flyers on the highstreet.
