Blog – Staff Spotlight: Caitlin Bains

We’re delighted to have student Caitlin Bains working with us at the moment as a Research Project Assistant Intern.

You have joined the Aberdeen Performing Arts team as a Research Intern. Tell us a bit about what you are working on?

I’m working on producing a survey for people over 60 to find out what sort of creative and social activities they enjoy, as Aberdeen Performing Arts has noticed a gap in their offering geared towards that age group. I’ve had a lot of fun getting involved in community initiatives, such as AFC Community Trust, to have in-person conversations and hear feedback from the public directly. Conducting research in such an involved way has never been an option for me before during my studies, so it’s been lovely to try something new.

What are you enjoying the most about working at Aberdeen Performing Arts?

I’ve loved being shown around the historic buildings, and also learning that the organisation has such an ingrained presence in the city- almost everyone I’ve spoken to lights up when they describe a good memory of seeing a show at the Music Hall, His Majesty’ Theatre or the Lemon Tree. Everyone I’ve met within Aberdeen Performing Arts has also been welcoming and friendly, and I was able to shake off those starting nerves very quickly.

What has surprised you most about working for Aberdeen Performing Arts?

How many projects, events and programmes are all being worked on concurrently, like a well-oiled machine!

What can we find you doing outside of your studies?

I’ve been a company member with Phoenix Theatre for two years, so performing in pantomimes or Christmas musicals at the Arts Centre! I’m also an avid pub quizzer at the St. Machar Bar.

Have you ever met anyone famous?

When I was very young, Michael Rosen signed a copy of his poetry collection for me at the Edinburgh Book Festival. That was a core memory.

Are there any upcoming shows you are looking forward to attending?

I’m buzzing to hopefully see Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, one of my favourite musicals.

How important are opportunities such as internships for students in organisations like Aberdeen Performing Arts?

Vital- I think that students like me are often put off from applying to positions within the Arts industry for fear of failure, as it can seem really intimidating at times. Being able to work with such a renowned organisation feels like a real achievement, and hearing how open Aberdeen Performing Arts is to student internships and other placements was such a confidence boost. It shows that there are organisations willing to open up opportunities, and having assistance through the university made things even smoother.