Arts & Music
Durham's deservedly high reputation for the arts is reflected at Van Mildert by a number of productions and events throughout the academic year.
Theatre
Durham Student Theatre (DST) manages their own venue, the Assembly Rooms situated on the Bailey where there is usually a play or musical on every week. Many Mildertians are involved in student theatre at a University level, whether they act, direct, produce or even own their own theatre company. Companies like DULOG and InStep produce lavish musical productions at Durham's Gala Theatre, drawing audiences from throughout the region. The Durham Revue produce nationally acclaimed standup comedy and take a show to the Edinburgh Festival every year.
At Mildert, The Arts Committee produce a Panto at Christmas and a Musical during the Easter term. The Theatre Committee put on a number of different plays and after exams there is often another lavish musical production.
Music
Van Mildert Music Society (VMMS) organise regular music recitals, as well as Jazz and Swing bands, the college Choir, charity cabarets and other events. Durham University Orchestral Society (DUOS) also hold their annual concert in Van Mildert's hall, performing a range of popular classics.
Van Mildert has a wide range of music facilities including a multi-million pound music room and recording studio.
Meet Sarah...
From the tender age of 8, graduate Sarah Baillie had a passion for opera. Van Mildert gave her the opportunity to pursue and expand her interest...
"College performance, especially in my first year, was hugely important when it came to building up my confidence on stage and getting to know people. Performing in college gave me the confidence to push myself further at University level in second year. I was involved in two college musicals ('Fame!' and 'Rent') and a cabaret concert as well as a 48-hour long production in my first year! College really allows you to explore your hobbies.I have now set up an opera project raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust around the country and have just finished a short opera-scenes course in London. I have also been signed on as a pupil to a famous opera singer - all very cool!"
Sarah Baillie, Van Mildert, BA Music graduate 2010