Image caption: Liam Farrell, a third-year student studying Dramatic Arts at Brock’s Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts, completed two co-op work terms that have shaped his career path in building community through the arts.
Tuesday, October 14, 2025 | by Gillian Minaker
Whether he’s on stage, behind the scenes or working with youth, Liam Farrell knows his calling is to build community through the arts.
A third-year Dramatic Arts (DART) student at Brock’s Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts (MIWSFPA), Farrell has explored different areas of the theatre industry through co-op work terms that have been pivotal in shaping his skills and career direction.
Over the summer, Farrell completed a work term with Carousel Players, an award-winning professional theatre company for young audiences in downtown St. Catharines.
Supporting drama educators and bringing performances to life for young campers was an experience he will never forget.
“I was mentored by artistic professionals and had the chance to meet, and be inspired by, incredibly creative kids,” he said.
Farrell, whose passion for performing arts encompasses acting and all aspects of creative production, helped support youth of all abilities during his time at Carousel Players.
“Being part of their inclusive community helped me grow in adaptability and empathy,” he said.
Over the summer, third-year Dramatic Arts student Liam Farrell gained valuable industry experience in the arts thanks to a co-op work term with Carousel Players, an award-winning professional theatre company for young audiences.
Facilitated by Brock’s Co-op, Career and Experiential Education (CCEE) team, which connects students with relevant work terms and offers a range of resources to support career development, these experience shed new light on Farrell’s studies.
“I applied ideas and approaches from my classes that deepened my understanding of arts education and my connection with the local arts community here in Niagara — the experience solidified my desire to work in theatre,” he said.
Farrell also gained valuable experience during his 2024 work term as an actor with Pirate Life Theatre in Hamilton where he honed his problem solving skills while learning about organizational logistics and administration.
Quentin Dus, Talent Partnership Consultant with CCEE, said experiences like Farrell’s demonstrate how they can open doors for students to explore their potential and the impact of strong partnerships between Brock’s co-op office and community partners.
“Watching Liam thrive in his co-op role at Carousel Players as well as Pirate Life Theatre previously has been incredibly rewarding. His growth and success speak volumes about his talent, adaptability and passion for the dramatic arts,” Dus said.
Looking to the future, Farrell aims to work with professional theatre companies, locally and abroad, and contribute his knowledge and experience to strengthening communities and building bridges through the arts.
“I’m grateful to Carousel Players for their mentorship, and I’m excited to carry these valuable experiences forward in my career.”