Katie Jackson studied BA Costume Production, and graduated in 2024. We caught up with Katie and asked her to share her experiences of studying at Rose Bruford College and how her education has helped her to succeed in the industry.
What did you like most about studying at Rose Bruford College?
In our second and third year, we collaborated alongside other students and professionals to showcase a variety of productions. My personal highlights were being a maker, assistant, dresser on Seussical, and costume supervisor on To Sir, With Love.
How has your course helped you to get to where you are today?
Gaining dressing experience on a number of shows at Rose Bruford College, all involving different skillsets, has allowed me to work on a mix of professional productions with different costume demands. Since graduating, I have dressed on Shrek the Musical, Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, and Magic Mike Live. The Costume Production course leaders, Natasha Dodsworth and Sarah Barnes frequently send us job opportunities, offer recommendations, and will pass along contacts. I was able to work on Shrek the Musical by connecting with the production team at Face 2 Face, our graduate show.
What has been the highlight of your career to date?
My personal highlight so far would be working on the west end, as a dep dresser on Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, and being the principal dresser on Magic Mike Live.
How have you stayed connected to Rose Bruford College since graduation?
We have an alumni group chat, including our course leaders where we keep in touch, post job opportunities, and ask for help. I have also kept in touch with Natasha Dodsworth, keeping her updated with my accomplishments and asking for advice.
What would you say to a student thinking of applying for your course today?
Whilst in your first year, you focus on learning the making skills to build and standardize these skills, in your second and third year, you can begin to specialize and play to your strengths, that may include dressing, assisting, and/or supervising as opposed to making.
Pick three words to describe Rose Bruford College
Inspiring, Creative, Collaborative
Find out more about Katie
Instagram: @katie_costumes