“I’m ready to head out to the industry and make a name for myself.”
Although Maisie Bidwell was always discouraged from following a creative career, her passion led her to UWTSD’s BA Set Design and Production programme. Graduating this week, she is awarded the Performing Arts Bursary and now has a new outlook on education and her future.
Maisie has always had a creative flair, however, throughout her education, she was never encouraged to take her creativity seriously. After leaving school, she moved straight into full-time work, thinking that university was not an option for her.
A turning point came when she faced significant personal and professional challenges. Maisie said: “When I lost my job and ended a long-term relationship, I decided I wanted my life to take a different trajectory.”
This pivotal moment led her to explore UWTSD where she discovered the BA Set Design and Production course. The course immediately resonated with her love for theatre, film, and TV. Certain of her choice, Maisie only applied to UWTSD.
Her time here has been filled with highlights and achievements with one of her most memorable experiences being working on the impressive dragon puppet for Shrek the Musical. She particularly treasures her time working with Carmarthen Youth Opera as a puppeteer and make-up artist, which led to her and her fellow students receiving the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Her role as a costume designer for other live productions, where she collaborated with students from the Acting course, further solidified her passion for costume design. She said: “Working on The Visit allowed me to explore characters through costume, and The Admirable Crichton gave me the opportunity to explore period costumes and the use of costume hire.”
Maisie also embraced opportunities to work with notable industry players, including Boom Cymru on the BBC drama Men Up and the Welsh National Opera’s Touring Wardrobe team. These experiences allowed her to build valuable contacts and gain insights into the industry, preparing her for future success.
Her journey was made all the more positive with the support and kindness of friends, family and her UWTSD lecturers. The University’s support staff also helped her through a diagnosis for dyslexia, preparing her for the work ahead and allowing her to thrive. The support she received solidified to her that UWTSD was where she belonged.
Maisie’s experience at UWTSD has been transformative, changing her perspective on education and her future. She said: “I’ve accomplished more than I ever thought would be possible. This course has continually pushed me, and I’ve felt nurtured the whole way.”
As she graduates, Maisie will be awarded the University’s Performing Arts Award (English medium) and feels confident and ready to make her mark in the industry. “I have big plans for the future. I’m ready to head out and make a name for myself. This course has taught me all the skills I need; now all I have to do is go out and prove I can be successful.”
Nominated by her lecturer, Stacey-Jo Atkinson, she said: “Throughout her time at UWTSD, Maisie has been a dedicated and high achieving student. She has grabbed every opportunity that has come her way and has developed her skills and personal brand.
“The Set Design and Production degree is industry driven with a commitment to the students, pushing and preparing them to discover their passions in order that they can pursue a career in the creative industries.
“Congratulations to Maisie and we wish her all the luck in her future endeavours.”
Further Information
Mared Anthony
Communications and PR Officer: Alumni Relations
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: mared.anthony@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: +447482256996