Spotlight on Reese
Assistant Producer

As one of our first Future Formers, you’ve taken part in a wide range of projects – from film editing to stage management to running workshops. Which project has had the biggest impact on your journey and why?

Personally, the most impactful project was working with the set designer and puppeteer, then stage managing with the team at Jackson’s Lane for Jack and the Beanstalk. Before that, I focused on film—cinematography, production, and art design—and hadn’t considered theatre. This experience opened my eyes to a new medium while building on my artistic interests. Hearing children react in real time reminded me of the power of live performance—something cinema doesn’t offer. Collaborating with the production team sparked my passion for theatre and production, which I’ve continued to pursue ever since.

You worked as a young artist on Trellis – a creative collaboration between artists and UCL researchers. How did you approach producing your artwork and what message were you hoping to share through it?

I responded to Nate Agbetu’s project, which explored mapping London spaces and the cultural relevance and threats they face. Drawn to different mediums, I took a mixed media approach—using lino prints, pastels, collage and graphic design. I created a ‘collage’ on a bulletin board to reflect how community groups post their causes, highlighting London’s diversity and the importance of being heard. By combining historical photos, parody and real-life articles, I aimed to engage a range of audiences and spark reflection on the value of local identity, collective memory and the spaces we fight to protect.

Well done for completing your Assistant Producer role at Alexandra Palace! What was your biggest learning in that role?

The biggest learning from my role at Ally Pally was communication. I engaged with a wide range of people from children at summer camps to older adults at coffee mornings, internal staff and peers. Each group had its own way of understanding, so learning how to adapt my communication style was key. This helped me build relationships, gain trust and ensure that activities felt safe and inclusive for everyone involved. Understanding how to meet people where they are, has been a skill I’ve taken forward into other roles, especially when working with diverse communities.

What has been the most valuable thing you’ve learned from working with coaches or through your experiences with Future Formed?

Trying new things has been the most valuable takeaway. Future Formed gave me the freedom to take risks and join new projects without financial pressure or fear of commitment. It taught me that if something doesn’t work out, that’s okay I’ve still learned from the experience. That mindset has stayed with me, giving me the confidence to step into new roles, both professionally and personally. It’s been liberating to know I can explore, reflect and move forward without regret. Future Formed has really helped shape my openness to opportunity and creative growth.

You’ve collaborated across film, theatre and community projects. How do you think this diverse portfolio has shaped your identity as a creative?

Working across film, theatre and community projects has shaped my goals toward becoming an arts producer. Each medium has overlapping but distinct elements and that diversity has helped me become more well-rounded bringing creative ideas, partnerships and insight into every project. I’ve worked with a wide range of creatives, audiences and production styles, which has expanded how I approach challenges and collaborations. I love that I get to combine my passion for different art forms and apply it meaningfully. That variety continues to fuel my drive and curiosity as a creative

Congratulations on your new role with the Learning and Participation team at Stratford East! What was it about Stratford East that drew you?

I’d previously worked on an events project with them and they invited me back when the Assistant Producer role opened. What excites me about Stratford East is its focus on theatre and being a producing house. I’m looking forward to gaining insight into the full production process and contributing to the pastoral care side of working with young people. That’s something I began at Ally Pall and I’m excited to develop it further especially through long-term engagement with children and teens, which is new for me.

You’ve been connected to Future Formed for over 3 years now what has that kind of long-term support meant to you personally and professionally?

Future Formed has been vital since I left university. Professionally, it opened doors that would have been harder to access without a degree. This has boosted my employability and confidence in the creative industries. Personally, it’s been a constant support system, offering emotional and tailored guidance through changing times.

Why do you think this sustained approach works so well for creative residents like yourself?

That sustained connection means the team grows with you, adapting to your interests and personal development. It works because it shows genuine care reminding you there’s space for your voice and work in the world. It’s rare to find that kind of support and it’s making a lasting difference in my journey. I simply believe that it works well for residents as it’s a sign that the team care and want to give you a place in this world.