Cambridge has a thriving creative scene, and there are lots of different kinds of ways you can get involved. These activities can develop your skills in many areas, from writing to organisation, whilst having a lot of fun! The sections below will give you more information on which skills you'll be building, and how to get started.
If you're already doing any of these activities, use this page and the Skills Glossary to think about which skills you're developing, or evaluate your skills with the Skills Discovery Tool.
Theatre
Cambridge theatre is busy all year round, with at least 5 shows happening every week at various venues, and touring shows during vacations. There's a role for everyone, whatever your interest or experience level.
You could try acting, building your skills in public speaking, self-confidence and teamwork.
Gain experience in social media marketing and graphic design in a publicity role, developing your creativity.
Taking on technical and creative roles develops problem-solving skills, resilience and flexibility to respond to changes or challenges.
Build leadership and project management skills as a producer or director as you see the show through from idea to performance.
Get involved
Start by checking out the Introduction to Cambridge Theatre guide. You can apply to roles advertised on Camdram, many of which don't require experience. Once you've found your feet, consider applying for a committee role for a society such as CUADC, Pembroke Players or BATS.
Journalism
There are multiple student newspapers in Cambridge, giving you lots of opportunities to write on topics that interest you from news and politics to science and fashion to theatre and film reviews.
Start off by writing articles to develop your communication skills and the ability to work to deadlines. You'll practice researching, interviewing people, and presenting information clearly.
Take on an editorial role to build leadership and critical thinking skills, learning how to manage others and review content whilst keeping the project on track.
Get involved
Apply to be a writer - Varsity open applications at the end of each term, and The Tab accepts termly applications. You could also submit pitches for articles. You can do this on The Cambridge Student website or joining Varsity Writer's group.
Creative Writing and Poetry
Many of the greatest writers went to Cambridge, from Wordsworth to Xu Zhimo. Maybe you could be the next!
Whether it's a novel or a poem, writing builds your originality and storytelling skills.
Sharing your work through open mic nights and feedback sessions is a great way to develop self-confidence and public speaking skills, and practice supporting others to improve.
Take on responsibility for publishing and editing a zine or anthology to build your project management and collaboration skills.
Get involved
Attend any events that interest you.
Most College-based writing society events are open to all students, and you can explore the active poetry and writing societies here. Many hold regular writing and open mic sessions. Check when submissions are open for publications such as The Mays or the Cambridge Review of Books.
You could apply to join a committee for such a society, or launch your own publication or society - Colleges often offer funding for creative projects and groups.
Visual Arts
There are many opportunities for making and curating art in Cambridge, whether you're a complete beginner or art school graduate.
From life drawing to photography, making art develops your creativity and expression skills. Build your persistence and adaptability by learning to work with new mediums.
Build your project management skills by curating and organising exhibitions. You'll also practice your communication skills as you choose how to present the works to an audience.
Get involved
See if your College has an Art Room, such as the facilities at King's College. Attend events run by arts societies - you can find a full list here. Sessions, such as life drawing or craft workshops, are common - follow societies on social media to find out what's on. Submit your work to exhibitions such as Queens' Arts Festival.
You could apply for College funding to put on an art exhibition or workshops, or join a society's committee to help keep the arts scene thriving.
Film
Cambridge has a growing film scene with opportunities for making films, organising film screenings, and being involved in the world's largest student film festival!
Filmmaking develops technical skills, creative vision, and teamwork. If you're coordinating the production, you'll build your skills in project management and leadership.
Build your collaboration and logistics skills by organising screenings or the Watersprite film festival, learning how to manage and promote events.
Get involved
Explore the active film screening societies here. Consider taking on a committee role to get the chance to show your favourite flicks! If you're looking to get into filmmaking, keep an eye out for roles advertised on Camdram.
Join the Watersprite film festival team to get involved in organising the biggest student-run film festival in the world. If you're looking to get behind the scenes with a little less responsibility, you could volunteer at the festival. Passionate about watching films? Apply to become a Watersprite judge.
Radio
CAM FM is Cambridge's student radio station, with a variety of ways to get involved.
You could present a show, building your communication and public speaking skills. Hosting a music show will develop your creativity and originality.
Try out producing or a committee role to build organisation and collaboration skills.
Learn new technical skills through audio engineering, developing your problem-solving and attention to detail.
Get involved
Sign up for CAM FM's training programme to find out which roles you might be interested in.