High-flying dance student Carly Brownlee begins a coveted internship at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast following her graduation from the University of Ulster today.

Carly, who is from Carrickfergus, scooped a Northern Bank Freedom Experience Scholarship after entering an essay writing competition during the final year of her BA Honours Dance degree course.

The 1,000 word article outlining how she would use her university experience to enhance her employability skills, secured the young graduate £1,000 in prize money as well as a six-month internship at the internationally-renowned theatre.

“I am really looking forward to beginning my internship at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast,” said Carly.

“I will be focussing on stage management and the technical aspects of theatre during the six-month period which will be a fantastic opportunity for me as I would love to work as a stage manager in the future.”