Music Performance and Production students from City of Westminster College, part of United Colleges Group, recently enjoyed an inspiring, behind-the-scenes visit to The Cockpit, the College’s professional theatre venue in Marylebone.
The Cockpit, one of London’s most innovative theatre and live music spaces, has long been a creative home for emerging and established artists. As part of United Colleges Group, it provides students with unique access to professional performance environments right on our doorstep.
Cockpit Director Dave Whybrow and College Liaison Abeo Neequaye guided students through an exclusive tour of the venue. Learners were given backstage access to dressing rooms, the on-site workshop, stage management areas and the sound desks, gaining valuable insight into the technical and operational aspects of running a live performance space. They also heard all about what it takes to market a show, run front of house and manage live audiences.
A highlight of the day was the opportunity to sit in on the sound check of acclaimed vocalist and composer Bea Asurmendi. Bea is known for blending contemporary jazz with the rich textures of Basque and Iberian folk traditions. She has performed at leading venues and festivals across the UK and internationally, with her music broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and Jazz FM, which was hugely inspiring for our learners. Students then got to round off the evening with a complimentary ticket to the Cockpit’s monthly Jazz in the Round performance, which included Bea Asurmendi’s set.
Lina, a Music Student commented: “The trip was an incredible experience. Not only was the performance amazing, but we also had the opportunity to go behind the scenes, including attending soundchecks and touring the theatre. The staff gave us valuable insight into how everything operates, which was especially beneficial as we would love to organise a performance there ourselves.”
The visit offered a powerful glimpse into the professional music world for our students, and is an example of the strong industry links and real-world learning opportunities available at City of Westminster College.