Hello, my name is Aaron Porter. I am from Chicago, Illinois in the USA. I go to school at Ithaca College in New York, USA, where I am in my 3rd year of study to be a lighting designer. I am the new Production Intern at the Bush. I have just finished my first week, and words simply cannot describe the welcome I have felt from the Bush.
Starting with day 1, I was immediately thrown in head first. Through working at the Bush, I wanted to gain first hand insight of what theatre in London is like. Anthony, the Production Manager, and the Bush staff has given me some wonderful opportunities that showed me a glimpse of what the Bush was all about. In my first week, I met up with the tour of The Great Country Fete in Bath to help with the get in and get out. I was very anxious about this whole opportunity, since I still did not feel completely acclimated in my London Flat. After going to Bath, I felt more comfortable with the Bush, and I felt like I was starting to find my niche. The rest of the week was spent working with the Production Team pulling things together for upcoming shows and events and getting materials ready for the Latitude Festival. Latitude was a great cultural experience and it was awesome to learn more about the people of the Bush!
I discovered the Bush through Josie's work at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. The trip to the Bush was a very intensive process. The Bush and I had to find our way through the visa process. After a second attempt, everything fell in place and I found myself on a plane headed for London. I am completely honest when I say I was terrified. This was the first time I had ever been to the UK. Not to mention, I had agreed to stay their for the next six months, working with a theatre company I had only been in contact with via e-mail and one 15 minute face-to-face meeting with Josie. On that first day, all my worries went away. Something clicked when I walked into the Bush and I had a feeling that everything was going to be okay. I am very thankful for the Bush team's patience. Many times I find myself confused with terminology differences here in the UK. They are always willing to take a moment and fill me in.
Life in London has been quite different, but a great experience. It is really the first time I am on my own, and what better than doing it in a foreign country! I am now starting to make my flat a home, and develop a routine in London life. Of course I find myself having to adapt to the different terminologies... and ways of life, but it is all part of the experience. I feel the Bush has welcomed me in, and has made the adjustment a lot smoother. I am excited for the intense six months ahead of me. I do not know what to expect, but I know whatever it is, it will be an experience I will never forget.