Sheli Ali

Sheli Ali is currently a Digital Content Producer for performing arts venue, Sadler’s Wells Theatre. Sheli is a former vocational and A Level student at NewVIc. She came from Forest Gate Community School and studied an Extended Diploma in Performing Arts and an A Level in Dance. She progressed onto study an undergraduate degree at Lancaster University to study BA (Hons.) in Theatre Studies. We caught up with Sheli to find out a little more on her journey since NewVIc.

What made you apply to NewVIc?

I really wanted to study dance but I had no previous formal experience. All the other colleges and sixth forms I was considering required an audition and so I felt pretty intimidated. When I explored NewVIc as an option, they encouraged attending a ‘taster day’ rather than an audition. I had the opportunity to experience a mini dance class and I spoke with the teachers directly. They filled me with confidence and explained that they work with all sorts of abilities and they were committed to training students in multiple disciplines regardless of their previous experience. That reassurance made my choice really easy!

Tell us about your journey from NewVIc to where you are now?

My years at NewVIc were magical and my experience didn’t stop when I finished my studies! (It’s still very much a part of my life 10 years later!) While I was studying, staff and teachers constantly presented students with opportunities - from watching West End theatre performances at an affordable price to performing in the 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony! Naturally, taking these opportunities opened doors and grew my networks. I also had a passion for photography/videography at the time and my teachers welcomed this alongside my course. After I graduated from NewVIc, NewVIc staff stayed in touch and invited me back regularly to work on shows. The training I gained from the teachers meant that I could slip into multiple roles from stage management to capturing content on camera. I have been lucky to work on a multitude of projects as a result of the experience, opportunities, training and nurturing that NewVIc provided me as both a student and alumni.

How did you get into the position that you are in?

Since graduating from NewVIc, I have gained experience working with artists and dancers and capturing them on camera in both photo and video format. When the role of a content producer came up, I was able to draw upon my years of experience. Even though my work experience wasn’t linear (I have done plenty of other jobs outside of content creation ranging from youth-work to project management) I could still demonstrate the transferable skills I had gained which would make me suitable for the role. I really loved Sadler’s Wells Theatre and their programme during my time at NewVIc so it feels like a real full-circle moment to now be working for them!

What are your memories of NewVIc?

Oh, so many great ones! Laughter was definitely the core of all my memories. I had a great time and would always find moments of joy with teachers and fellow students, even during difficult times. I remember spending so much time in the dance studio - it felt like a second home! Most of all, I remember all of the shows I got to perform in and watch in and outside of NewVIc. We would have a few big shows to look forward to every year at Stratford Circus and they were always full of excitement! And how could I forget the cookies from Sid’s cafe?!

What is your advice for students considering NewVIc and pursuing a career like you?

Do it!! The staff have years of experience and have an amazing ability to recognise your potential and shape you into a well-rounded person and performer. Also, take every opportunity that is presented to you - they are golden and don’t come by often.

Also, the courses are so varied. I signed up thinking I would just learn how to dance but I ended up learning a whole heap more and falling in love with theatre and performance art. There is so much variety when studying at NewVIc and the curriculum will introduce you to things you don’t even know exist!

How did you find the teaching at NewVIc? Did it prepare you for your next educational step?

Absolutely - the teaching was gold-standard and better than I had at school or at university! The teachers felt like mentors rather than authoritative figures making you do tons of coursework! (Of course, there was coursework, but it wasn’t the main focus) It was always interesting learning new things and no two days were the same. Personally, the teachers challenged me and helped me grow in confidence. I wasn’t sure about going to university at first and almost didn’t apply but then they took me under their wing and based on their advice, I explored options that were better suited for me and I ended up studying at one of the top 10 universities for Theatre.

What were your next steps after leaving college?

After completing my vocational and A Level course at NewVIc, I went onto study a degree in Theatre Studies at Lancaster University.

How would you describe yourself before you came to NewVIc?

I would have described myself and someone who was really shy and quiet. I lacked a lot of confidence and often wouldn’t speak out. Safe to say the students and teachers eased me out of my shell over time…

What are your future plans?

I would like to branch out further into producing and see where that takes me. It requires different skills such as being super organised and networking but it’s new and exciting for me! I have worked with a number of dancers over the years but I would like to widen the pool of artists I work with, such as musicians, painters etc. Essentially, a fusion of creating content using my camera and managing projects for other people and organisations.