BA (Hons) Theatre and Drama graduate Louise Miles-Crust is Head of Programming at Wales Millennium Centre, a major arts centre for musicals, opera, ballet and dance.

"Studying USW's drama degree in Cardiff was amazing. The link with the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama was really helpful and I loved being able to take some modules there.

I was able to work behind the scenes on some of the third year student final pieces and even performed in a couple of them. During my final year we created a project to work with local children who are in care or foster accommodation, which was challenging but rewarding.

The University has strong links with the Welsh media, and while studying I also gained a placement with BBC Radio Wales.

Just after I graduated I was lucky enough to get a job as an Arts Development Officer. The role covered everything from technical, marketing, programming and teaching and gave me an excellent base for the future.

I then applied for the Head of Programming role at Wales Millennium Centre. I was successful due to my knowledge of the Wales arts scene from my time at the University of South Wales. 

It's a dream job for a drama graduate and arts enthusiast. I’ve programmed a variety of shows such as Cirque Eloize, No Fit State Circus, Footsbarn, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Billy Connolly. I also worked on the opening weekend celebrations and now I’m working on events for the tenth anniversary, such as a large outdoor performance and a sleepover event.

I first went to university wanting to be a performer and soon realised I’d get more enjoyment from making the work happen! I love working in a sold-out theatre with an audience full of people enjoying something I’ve been able to make possible."

You can also chose to study the BA (Hons) Theatre and Drama in Welsh