Nathan James is an established scenic designer, metal worker, and draughtsperson, currently working at the National Theatre. Since graduating from BA Scenic Arts in 2011, he has built a career defined by technical versatility, creative problem-solving, and a commitment to collaborative making.
Nathan’s pathway into theatre has always been rooted in a hands-on approach:
“When I graduated in 2011, I promoted myself as a carpenter, welder fabricator and fibreglasser. I produced my own construction drawings and built for a variety of clients.”
His early years laid the foundation for an impressive trajectory. Nathan went on to spend 11 years at the Royal Ballet and Opera, where he honed his craft across carpentry, fabrication, and construction draughting. His work supported some of the UK’s most ambitious productions, helping bring complex staging and large-scale artistic visions to life. Beyond the performing arts, he has also contributed to the commercial sector, designing for events, exhibitions and bespoke installations, sectors that rely heavily on precision, innovation, and the ability to respond quickly to creative briefs.
His motivation remains the same today as it was when he started:
“I’ve always been a creator. I fell in love with the theatre industry because there are new challenges every day. We literally build dreams, and no two projects are the same. I’m particularly driven by problem solving and I really enjoy being part of something that is bigger than myself.”
Nathan credits his time at Rose Bruford College for giving him the breadth of understanding he needed to navigate such a multifaceted industry:
“My time at Rose Bruford gave me a solid knowledge of all the disciplines used to create what we see on the stage. That knowledge has since been developed and allowed me to hold a variety of roles in scenery construction.
Now working within one of the UK’s most prestigious theatre institutions, he continues to collaborate with graduates from the College and sees first-hand how their training translates into the professional world.
Throughout my career, I have worked with Rose Bruford College graduates. Their sense of teamwork is unmatched, and the varied skill set they carry makes them a valuable asset to any organisation. I’m always excited to see Rose Bruford College on a CV.”
Curious about your creative career?
Find out more about BA Scenic Arts (Construction, Props, and Painting)
Learn practical theatre craft skills including prop making, scenery building and scenic painting that will jump-start your career in theatre, film, television, museum displays, and themed attractions.
Keep in touch
We’re always very happy to hear from former students of Rose Bruford.
To keep the College up-to-date with your contact details, or just to get in touch, please email: [email protected]