Theatre and the performing arts is a highly competitive sector and being able to demonstrate that you have relevant work experience will be a great advantage. You can begin building your skills and experience at university by volunteering, doing an internship, having a part-time job or by doing a professional placement.
Internships and work experience in this sector tend to be unpaid, however involving yourself in amateur productions at university or in the local community will be valuable experience.
The annual Brighton Festival and the Brighton Fringe Festival are great opportunities to gain experience with both festivals looking for staff, volunteers and performers each year.
Read A Younger Theatre's blog post on theatre internships in the West End - last updated in 2013 but some of the information remains useful and relevant
You could contact local theatres and production companies to see if they can offer work experience by sending a speculative application