Award for Management grad’s theatre production

Management graduate Rhianna Swyer’s first large-scale production for Hope Mill Theatre has been recognised by the WhatsOnStage Awards.

Rhianna is producer and general manager at Hope Mill in Manchester and its version of Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein: The Musical, was named Best Studio Production.

The WhatsOnStage Awards are voted for entirely by the public and recognise the very best of UK theatre.

We spoke to Rhianna, who graduated in 2023, about the award and how her industry placement while at LIPA – at Hope Mill Theatre - shaped her career.

How did it feel to win the Best Studio Production Award?

It was a real shock, and we were so grateful to have the show recognised in that way. Young Frankenstein was such a joyful production to bring to life, and to see it celebrated – especially by audiences – meant a huge amount to all of us. It also felt like an important moment for regional theatre; the work being created outside of London is so vital, and recognition like this helps shine a light on the ambition, talent and creativity happening across the country. Supporting and celebrating regional theatre feels more important than ever.

When you reflect on Young Frankenstein - what are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of the scale and ambition of the production, and how wholeheartedly it was embraced by audiences. It was also my first time leading a large-scale project for the organisation, which made it feel particularly significant. Taking the show to Liverpool after its original run was very special to me personally, as that’s where my love for the industry really developed. It also meant a lot that such a large proportion of the company were LIPA graduates – I knew the show was in safe hands, and there was something really special about getting to work with people who are not only incredibly talented, but also friends.

On a personal level, it was also incredibly meaningful as it’s my grandad’s favourite film, so I grew up with it being such a significant part of my life. Getting to work with Nick Winston and see him bring such an iconic piece to life on stage was really special.

You were originally appointed as an assistant producer at Hope Mill Theatre after your completed you third-year industry placement there. Is that when you decided you wanted to be a producer?

My third-year placement was hugely important in clarifying my career path. It was the first time I properly understood how theatre operates beyond the rehearsal room and how many different skills are required to get work made and seen. Being embedded in a real working environment showed me that producing wasn’t just about logistics, but about supporting artists, problem-solving, and holding a project together creatively and practically. That experience helped me realise that I was most motivated when I was helping other people’s ideas happen, and it gave me the confidence to pursue a career in theatre producing.

What did you learn at LIPA that you still use today?

At LIPA, I learned how to work collaboratively, communicate clearly, and take responsibility for my role within a larger team - skills I use every day. The emphasis on professionalism, adaptability, and problem-solving has stayed with me throughout my career. I also learned the value of being proactive and curious: asking questions, offering help thoughtfully, and taking initiative without overstepping. Those habits have been essential in theatre producing, where no two projects are the same and flexibility is key.

What's next for you and Hope Mill Theatre?

We’re continuing to build on this momentum with a lot of exciting things in the pipeline, including Disney’s High School Musical, which will see Jason Donovan join the production as Coach Bolton – a really exciting moment for us. Alongside this, we’re working on a number of new projects that will be announced very soon.

As an organisation, we’re developing so much, and the next few years feel incredibly exciting. I can’t wait for audiences to see what we have up our sleeves.

Find out more about our BA (Hons) Management courses

Find out more about Rhianna's placement at Hope Mill Theatre