Backstage Academy's training for the live events production and entertainment industries includes courses on Apple based software such as Logic and Final Cut.
Jigsaw Systems has been working with Backstage Academy as it has developed its course portfolio and invested in new technologies over the past two years. The two companies have now formalised their relationship, with Backstage Academy becoming Jigsaw's official training partner for their UK-wide business and professional customers.
Backstage Academy's Apple courses, which currently include Logic 101, Logic 301, Final Cut Pro 101, Final Cut Express 101, Final Cut Pro 300, Final Cut Pro X, Motion 101, Colour Correction 101, DVD Studio Pro, Soundtrack Pro, Intro to Apple Macs and iLife, will be delivered both on site at the Academy's state-of-the-art facilities and off site according to clients' requirements.
The Apple courses will be taught by two tutors at the top of their field; Logic Pro expert and Backstage Academy Education Director David Kirtlan, who is an Apple Distinguished Educator and Mentor, and Final Cut Pro maestro Chris Roberts, a freelance editor and Apple Certified Master Trainer. Since the start of 2008, Roberts has also been one of a handful of Mentor Trainers for Apple Europe, with responsibility for running Apple's European Final Cut Pro Train-the-Trainer classes.
Jigsaw have a long relationship with the creative industries. Its PLASA attendees included audio consultant Rob Holsman, AV business manager Anthony Hammond, and Account Manager Andrew Crawford; keen musicians in their spare time, with plenty of live and studio time under their belts.
Sharing common interests with the folk at Backstage has proved invaluable in helping to forge a strong partnership, together bringing the latest technology and skills to those seeking careers in live entertainment.
"We've worked with Backstage Academy for a number of years, providing them with IT solutions that have helped them deliver some truly innovative and engaging training courses. Part of Jigsaw's mission has always been to help nurture new talent by giving them access to the tools used by creative professionals, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Backstage Academy in the future," said Hannah Voce, Jigsaw's education business development manager.
David Kirtlan said, "We're thrilled that Jigsaw share our vision at Backstage Academy for delivering cutting-edge courses that are at the forefront of technological developments in the entertainment and backstage industry."
Backstage Academy and Jigsaw Systems are running a daily prize draw for visitors to the show, where guests on the stand can win Backstage Academy Apple course vouchers and iPods, supplied by Jigsaw Systems.
(Jim Evans)
