Eleanor Rhode

Bedlam Theatre was where history graduate Eleanor Rhode took her first plunge into directing theatre. Her productions have since played out on some of the world's best known stages.

Name

Eleanor Rhode
Degree 

History
Year of graduation 2006

Your time at the University  

Eleanor Rhode talking to a young person
Photo by Ben Broomfield.

I loved my time at Edinburgh University. I really engaged with my course - it was one of the main reasons I chose to come to Edinburgh, along with my love for the city. As soon as I stepped off the train I knew I wanted to study at Edinburgh, and I had a brilliant four years. Studying history helped me figure out the things that mattered to me, and more than that, it helped me find a voice for what I believed.

My time at Edinburgh also yielded the most incredible and enduring friendships. I think those are the strongest memories from my time there – with friends, many of whom still feature strongly in my life today.

It was also where I took my first plunge into directing theatre, via EUTC at Bedlam Theatre. It was a wonderful time – the students had the keys to the theatre, and we made it our home. I don’t think I would have tried directing at all if it hadn’t been for Bedlam – it was a place to take risks and try things for the sake of doing it. I caught the bug, and I’m now a professional theatre director.

Studying history helped me figure out the things that mattered to me, and more than that, it helped me find a voice for what I believed.

Eleanor Rhode
Theatre director

Your experiences since leaving the University

After graduating from Edinburgh University I went on to complete a postgraduate diploma in Directing at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London, before embarking on a theatre career. I’ve since directed productions across the UK and abroad, including on the main stage of the Globe Theatre. I’m currently directing for the Royal Shakespeare Company, and I’ll soon be working on my first film piece.

Alumni wisdom

Try everything! There are so many activities and societies I wish I had tried while I was an undergraduate. Use your time as an opportunity to explore outside of your comfort zone as well as committing to your course.

Related links

History at the University of Edinburgh

Eleanor Rhode (external link)

Bedlam Theatre (external link)

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