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M*****classes

M*****classes was a unique training opportunity that aims to address the lack of gender diversity in creative design and production roles. Each set of M*****classes focused on a specific area and consists of workshops, talks with professionals and hands on experience. 

It was a free programme for those who had some experience or an interest in a field – but required refreshment or up-skilling before presenting themselves as viable candidates for these positions. Between 2019 and 2026 we hosted 6 different programmes, supporting production managers, sound designers, lighting designers and video designers. 

M*****classes is for women, non-binary people and people from other marginalised genders.

M*****classes: Lighting Design ’25

Our most recent M*****Classes programme took place in September 2025 – curated by Emma Jones, one of Scotland’s leading Lighting Designers.

Guest facilitators and panellists included Lizzie Powell, Michaella Fee, Kate Hall, Jemima Levick, Anna Orton and Laura Skinner. Participants included Honor McKenzie, Ella Catherall and Kiara Ford.

As well as attending workshops, participants were able to see Black Hole Sign (Traverse Theatre & Tron Theatre, in association with National Theatre of Scotland), with lighting designed by Lizzie Powell and Small Acts of Love (Citizens Theatre) with lighting designed by Bruno Pot.

This edition was produced by Emma Ruse, and supported by Summerhall Arts and the Tron Theatre.

To find out more about this programme, email Emma Ruse at emma@stellarquines.co.uk

Previous M******classes

  • Sound Design '23

    In 2023, we revisited the first ever subject – Sound Design. Clare Hibberd designed the programme.

  • Video Design

    A group shot of M*****classes: Video Design participants. 9 people in front of a white wall

    In these workshops, participants gained practical skills in video design and an understanding of career paths in the field.

  • Production Management

    Zoom screenshot of M*****classes participants

    During lockdown, participants attended online workshops designed by leading Production Manager, Fi Fraser.

  • Lighting Design

    M*****classes: Lighting participants sitting around a table looking at a large piece of paper

    This series of workshops explored the creative techniques underpinning the art of lighting design for theatre.

  • Sound Design

    Seven M*****classes: Sound participants standing in a line

    The first set of M*****classes offered hands on career experience in the role of sound design in theatre.

Visit our Previous M*****classes page for more information.

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