ALT Students Gain Hands-On Industry Experience at No Bounds Festival

Returning from 9–11 October, No Bounds Festival brought together electronic music, experimental AV performances, art and creative communities across venues in Sheffield and Rotherham. Known for championing adventurous music and innovative artistic collaborations, the festival featured immersive performances, exhibitions and a programme celebrating the region’s grassroots music scene. This diverse, technically ambitious event provided a valuable setting for both undergraduate and postgraduate students from ALT to experience the demands of professional live event production.

The collaboration gave students the opportunity to put their skills into practice in a live festival environment, taking on real production responsibilities and learning directly from experienced industry professionals.

Working at Peddler Warehouse, students supported the build and operation of the main stage, gaining practical experience in rigging, lighting, audio-visual equipment, stage changeovers and load-out.

For ALT student Daisy Evans, the experience offered valuable insight into the technical and collaborative demands of live event production.

“I had the opportunity to volunteer for No Bounds Festival in Sheffield as part of their crew team. We built the truss and main stage in Peddler Warehouse. I assisted with rigging and patching the lights, as well as installing the screen and running cables around to front of house. During the festival I helped with changeover between sets and ensured the artists’ equipment was looked after. To help the load out go smoothly on Saturday night I coiled countless cables and worked with the crewing team to ‘walk down’ the truss and dismantle it safely.

It was fascinating to watch artists like Max Cooper use AV techniques in such an experimental way. I will definitely take inspiration from this event into my own studies.”

Fellow ALT student Tilly Shenton took on the role of Assistant Stage Manager, working alongside industry professionals to coordinate stage changeovers and keep performances on schedule.

“No Bounds was an amazing opportunity to be an Assistant Stage Manager in a professional environment. Working alongside Tim and Bill, they let me lead what was going on during the changeovers and keeping everything on schedule. It was a very supportive experience even though the event itself was fast paced and a wild ride, I’m so grateful for the opportunity and hopefully will be back next year!"

The students’ contribution made a strong impression on festival production lead Tim Cleasby, who praised their commitment, professionalism and focus throughout two demanding 12-hour shifts.

Experiences like this are an important part of preparing ALT students for careers in the live events industry, providing opportunities to develop technical skills, build confidence and understand the realities of working on a live production.

Through its collaboration with No Bounds, ALT continues to connect students with industry professionals and create opportunities for students to take their learning beyond the classroom and into the working world.

Want to take your learning beyond the classroom? Explore all of ALT’s degree courses and join us at an Open Day to discover where a future in the live entertainment and creative industries could take you.