We asked BeatBrdg intern Casey about her recent two month internship experience here in London at a large multi-purpose concert hall. In this piece, Casey tells us about her unique experiences, what a typical day was like, and what she thinks she learned from her time in London.

The Role Offered Endless Opportunities

“As an intern at a concert hall, my days are filled with a wide variety of tasks and responsibilities. From setting up for events to managing performances, my role requires me to be flexible and adaptable, able to handle whatever comes my way.

My day typically starts early in the morning, as I arrive at the venue to begin preparations for the day’s events. Depending on what’s on the schedule, this could involve anything from setting up equipment and arranging seating to coordinating with performers and ensuring that everything is in order before they arrive.

One of the first things I do when I arrive is check my emails and messages to see if there are any urgent tasks or requests from my supervisor. This is an important step, as it helps me to prioritise my tasks for the day and make sure that everything is running smoothly.

Once I’m up to speed on any updates, I head down to the concert hall to begin setting up. This can involve a variety of tasks, depending on the specific event. For example, if there’s a classical concert taking place, I may need to arrange chairs and music stands for the performers, while also helping the engineers that the lighting and sound systems are properly configured, which might mean some heavy lifting! If it’s a rock concert, on the other hand, I might need to help set up the stage, help plug up the instruments for sound checks, or even work with the lighting team to ensure that the lighting is synchronised with the music.

Throughout the morning, I am also responsible for ensuring that the venue remains clean and presentable. This includes removing any litter, and making sure that everything is in order before and after each performance. It’s a small task, but an important one, as it helps to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for performers and audience members alike.

Creating Memorable Experiences

As the day progresses, my responsibilities shift to working directly on the various events taking place at the concert hall. Depending on the event my input and roles will vary. For example, last week we had an early graduation ceremony taking place, and I was responsible for taking tickets and ushering guests to their seats, while also providing assistance to any disabled or elderly guests. I also had to escort the speaker backstage and make sure that they were well looked after.

During performances, my role is to provide backstage support for performers and assist with any technical issues that may arise. This can include making sure that performers have access to water and other necessities on their riders, as well as providing guidance on how to navigate the venue.

Throughout the day, I’m also responsible for maintaining clear communication with my supervisor and other members of the team. I usually check-in every hour or so to provide updates on how things are going, as well as asking for assistance or guidance as needed. It’s important to stay in touch, as it helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that tasks are being completed efficiently and effectively.

At the end of the day, I head back to the office to wrap up any remaining tasks and debrief with my supervisor on how everything went. This is an important step, as it allows us to discuss any issues that arose and identify ways to improve our processes in the future. I normally complete a short report that is like a diary that I will be taking back to college when I finish for my credit.

My day as an intern at the concert hall is always busy, but incredibly rewarding. Being able to work behind the scenes to help create memorable experiences for both performers and audience members alike is a truly unique and fulfilling experience. It requires a wide range of skills and abilities, from technical expertise which I am still developing, to communication and problem-solving skills, but it’s a role that offers endless opportunities for growth and development”.

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