Julian Shapter

Performing Arts Lecturer / Demonstrator

Julian ‘Jules’ Shapter has taught the practical and backstage element of theatre and performance at West Thames College for over nine years. A youth theatre member in his teens, Jules became interested in lighting and sound during a work experience placement at The Kings Head Theatre, before spending spent eight years working backstage at the Watermans Theatre in Brentford. Now a first-class Creative Technician, Jules regularly works on major events across the UK. Recent examples include the premier for the Darwin-based film ‘Creation’, the BBC Four Film Awards, and key cultural events on London’s Southbank including the grand re-opening of the Royal Festival Hall.

“It’s important that our students are kept up-to-date with developments in the industry, especially in lighting and sound which are always evolving due to advances in technology. I try to document everything that I do in the industry and bring it back in to the classroom. This helps our students learn and experience all the technical aspects of being backstage: picking up the technical jargon, understanding the problems that can occur, and appreciating that there are many careers open to them in the Arts industry."

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