A LECTURER at a Horsforth-based university is helping to bring a fantasy world to life in a Broadway adaptation of Finding Neverland.

Bob Walmsley, an associate principal lecturer in Leeds Trinity University’s department of media, film and culture, is helping out with the special effects in the musical, which tells the story of author J M Barrie.

The academic used his animation and computer-generated imagery expertise, working with the production’s projection designer, Jon Driscoll, to create computer-generated waves and water. These effects will be projected onto vast, on-stage curtains to bring the fantasy world of Neverland to life.

Bob said: “When I initially got the call from Jon about being involved in this production, I jumped at the chance. I’ve worked with him on numerous projects over the last couple of years, so I knew that Finding Neverland would be equally as spectacular and a fantastic opportunity.

“To be involved in such a high-profile Broadway production was a real honour and I’m hopeful that I’ll have the opportunity to work on other similar projects in the future.”

As well as being a senior lecturer at Leeds Trinity University, Bob is also a professional radio presenter, 3D animator and journalist. He regularly works on pop concerts, theatre productions and West End shows.

Visit findingneverlandthe musical.com for more details.