Opening Doors: Lambeth ELEVATE x Levelling the Field

With the launch of Lambeth’s Creative Economy Strategy, one of our key aims is to improve pathways into creative careers.

To support this, Lambeth ELEVATE partnered with Levelling the Field to offer two Lambeth residents an exciting opportunity to work as Festival Producer Trainees at Mighty Hoopla, one of the UK’s largest music festivals. As part of the Brockwell Live series of events in Brockwell Park, the placements provided hands-on experience in programming, production, artist liaison and stage management. 

“Being on stage was a huge thing for me because I’d never experienced anything like that before. It felt like a dream come true. I’d always imagined being on a stage in a music-related setting, but seeing the performers, the crowds, and experiencing the festival as a whole was truly surreal.”

Festival Trainee A

Working to diversify the festival industry, Levelling the Field creates accessible pathways for Deaf and Disabled backstage talent. Through hands-on training, one-to-one support, and pastoral care, trainees gained valuable experience in a live festival environment while championing accessibility across the sector. Participants were also invited to join Levelling the Field’s freelance talent pool, providing access to future paid opportunities and continuous professional development.  

This achievement was made possible through strong collaboration. Lambeth’s Connect to Work team worked diligently to support young people to apply for the role, where two went on to impress during the selection process. We are also grateful to the Old Vic’s new Backstage Centre for generously providing an in-kind space for in-person training where young people and facilitators were able to connect and develop relationships before the big weekend. Together, these contributions ensured the best possible experience for the successful trainees. 

“Meeting and getting to know so many talented and inspiring people who, like me, have lived experience of disability, mental health challenges, or neurodivergence, was one of the most meaningful parts of the programme.”

Festival Trainee B