An Access Officer leads the planning of a theatre’s production programme for accessible performances. They ensure the building is accessible for Actors and audience members. An Access Officer will make sure that a person can enter and exit the venue with ease, e.g. a wheelchair user. A “relaxed performance” may occasionally be offered, during which typical theatre protocols are relaxed and sound levels are lowered. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may need to move around, speak, or enter and exit the auditorium more frequently. There are also occasional performances with BSL Performers ,captions or audio description.
There are no specific qualifications required to become an Access Officer however any formal qualifications in the following subjects might be beneficial:
Search through training opportunities from across the theatre industry to find a relevant qualification to become an Access Officer.
Relevant experience in access and working with groups of people who require additional support is essential for employers as it shows your commitment to this field of work. Work experience, apprenticeships and internships will help you gain experience and new skills which you can transfer into this role.
Wage for an Access Officer can vary and not every venue or company is fortunate to have someone dedicated to Access. Wages can be anywhere between £20k - £31k depending on the employer, your qualifications and experience. It is a rewarding role for both the people you’re supporting and the venue.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/equality-diversity-and-inclusion-officer
Updated: 6th June 2024
The role of someone in the theatre Administration Team is extremely varied. They help with email and phone correspondence, the development of new projects, make arrangements for tours and events as well as taking on marketing and planning responsibilities.
Although formal qualifications are not often a requirement, you may find it useful to study or train in one of the below subjects:
Search all training opportunities to help you get into theatre here
For a career in theatre administration, experience is essential. You can build your administrative skill set in other industries or do a Business and Admin apprenticeship. Make sure to show your passion for theatre, this will make you stand out to potential employers.
Find out more general careers information about the creative industries here
Administrator wage can vary depending on your skillset and time with an organisation. The salary can range from entry-level to supporting the directors of a venue or organisation.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/arts-administrator
https://www.artsjobs.org.uk/jobs/16050
https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/Salaries/arts-administrator-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/arts-administrator
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 7th June 2024
A Theatre Education Manager is someone who works within an education and learning department with a theatre. They create programmes that make links to schools and young people and ensure that young people further engage with the current production. They are passionate about drawing young people into the theatre through a programme of workshops and activities.
You can search for opportunities in education using The Stage Jobs here.
Depending on the organisation, some require you to have a degree with general administrative and organisational work experience. They may also require you to have a teaching license.
Read up on the qualifications you can gain to work in education with our blog 'What does a Drama Teacher do?'
Search opportunities in education on the Get Into Theatre website here.
Many of those who work in theatre education have worked in different areas within the theatre industry before working within the education department. If you can gain a position within a theatre organisation preferably in an admin position you can learn transferable skills that would make you an ideal candidate for a Theatre Education Manager.
https://ccskills.org.uk/careers/advice/article/working-in-theatre-education
https://www.thestage.co.uk/advice/2017/how-to-be-a-theatre-education-projects-manager/
Photo: Shutterstock
Published: 27 August 2019
A Set Designer creates the look of the stage through designing a set for a theatre production. This role is a combination of creativity and practicality as Set Designers must create not only the design but also make sure it can practically come to life within budget.
Search through opportunities in set design to help you get into theatre here
A majority of Set Designers training will take place on the job. You can also gain a position as a Set Designer through a university course, college course, apprenticeship or working towards the role. If you would like to study to become a Set Designer you can study for a qualification in one of the following areas. You can gain a qualification in any of the following subjects:
Search for apprenticeships here and how they can help you here.
Ensure you keep a portfolio of all of your previous work to show to potential employers. Read our blog, ‘How to make a set design portfolio’ for some tips on how to best display your work.
If you choose not to study and gain a job through experience, volunteer at your local theatre or try and get a work experience placement at a slightly larger theatre. Seeking mentors and requesting shadow experience can help you learn from those already working in the industry. Research which Designers make the sets you like, so you can learn what your design aesthetic could be and what journey they took. With more experience and developing your skills you can work on larger scale productions.
Watch this great video from award-winning Set Designer Khadija Raza.
The role of a Set Designer can vary depending on the scale of the production as well as the actual size of the theatre. Most Set Designers work on a freelance basis unless they belong to a big theatre. For one production, 2024/2025 Equity rates suggest a design fee of £3133.13 and a weekly making fee of £613.84.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
Find designing opportunities and training offered from across the theatre industry here
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://www.allaboutcareers.com/careers/job-profile/set-designer
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/set-designer
https://www.itc-arts.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Rates-of-Pay-2024-27-Sheet.pdf
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 23rd May 2024
Agents represent Actors, Playwrights, Directors, Producers, Musicians, Voice-over Artists and other professionals in the entertainment industry. Agents act as the middle person between the individual with the talent and the potential employer.
There are no specific qualifications needed to become an Agent within the theatre industry. However, it may help if you have some form of qualification in one of the following areas:
Find opportunities to get into theatre here
You can work towards the role of an Agent through applying for positions at talent agencies directly and if you were previously a Performer you can use this experience to your advantage. Most people get their foot in the door via an internship and then working as an Agents Assistant. Your progression is dependent on building a strong reputation, and attracting top clients for your books. Some Agents then go on to work freelance or create their own agency once they’re established. Read our blog ‘How to become a freelancer in theatre’ for some helpful tips.
Agents earn a basic salary and also take commission on any work they get for their client, (this is usually 10% - 20% of what their client is paid) however they will only get a part of this and the rest goes to the agency they work for. If an Agent is freelance they can take the whole commission.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/talent-agent
https://theartcareerproject.com/how-to-become-a-talent-agent/
https://www.allaboutcareers.com/careers/job-profile/agent
Updated: 7th June 2024
A Casting Director plays a pivotal role in selecting performers for a production. Their responsibility is crucial to the overall success of the project. Inaccurate casting choices can significantly impact the quality of the production. Therefore, the Casting Director meticulously ensures that each role is filled with the most suitable performer, considering factors such as experience, skill, and suitability for the character. Not every show will have a Casting Director, with much smaller scale shows relying on the Director and Producer to find and secure performers.
Formal qualifications are not required to become a Casting Director, but experience is necessary. Individuals who want to pursue a career as a Casting Director can complete a degree in theatre, film production, acting or business to increase their chances of employment and make contacts in the industry.
Find opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Many Casting Directors begin their careers as Casting Assistants (CSA) to become a Casting Director. Some complete apprenticeships for Casting Agents and Directors or some complete work experience at talent agencies and production companies.
Find an apprenticeship or work experience opportunities here.
A fee for a Casting Director in theatre can vary depending the demands of the production and the Casting Director's contacts in the industry. You will often be freelance and can set your own rates. As an example, in TV and film, Casting Directors can earn around £260 per day/ £1,430 per week.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://www.thecdg.co.uk/becoming-a-casting-director/
https://www.mgcfutures.com/casting-director/
https://www.productionbase.co.uk/ratesofpay.aspx
Updated: 5th June 2024
Backstage Crew members are also referred to as Stagehands, Stage Crew and/or Stage Technicians. They help with the ‘get-in’ and ‘get-out’ (see theatre terms here) before and after a show, as well as backstage during a show. They can assist with props, scenery, lighting and sound.
Find backstage opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Formal qualifications are not essential for Backstage Crew roles. However the following qualifications could help:
Community theatre is a great way to gain experience in backstage jobs or joining a technical youth theatre.
Find technical youth theatres from across the UK here
Many Crew members work on a freelance or part-time basis often combining it with other creative roles within the industry. Many theatres offer apprenticeships in this area of work and this is a good starting point. Apply for work experience positions and learn as much as you can. Read our blog 'How to become a freelancer in theatre' for more information.
Find apprenticeships in backstage to help you get into theatre here
Grade 5 or 6 rates for 2023-2025 as per the SOLT/BECTU Agreement suggests a minimum weekly rate of £557.48- £609.46. This would be for a 40 hour week. Backstage Crew can also be on casual contracts with a venue that are paid hourly, usually with a minimum call and breaks built in.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://www.allaboutcareers.com/careers/job-profile/stagehand
https://members.bectu.org.uk/advice-resources/library/3176
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/stagehand
Photo: Alex Brenner
Updated: 6th June 2024
A Puppet Designer & Maker is someone who designs, creates and dresses puppets. Puppetry is the art of making puppets and working with the Puppeteers to demonstrate how the puppet works. Puppets are small figures which are designed to be used by hand or by wire for the purpose of entertainment. Sometimes, the Puppet Designer may also take on the role of the Puppeteer as an Actor/Performer in the performance.
There are no formal qualifications needed to become a Puppet Maker but a combination of artistic talent, craftsmanship, and technical skills is essential for success in the field. A Theatre and Performing Arts education can provide valuable knowledge. Internships and apprenticeships are a useful way to enter the industry.
Find opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Puppet Makers who are starting out may choose to begin with children’s parties or by taking their shows to festivals such as Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This will build on your experience and promote your shows. Some Puppet Makers might work with theatre companies or run their own. Puppet makers will often make puppets for shows that are for young audiences.
Ensure you keep a portfolio of all of your work to show to potential employers. Read our blog, ‘How to make a set design portfolio’ for some tips on how to best display your work.
Most Puppet Makers work on a freelance basis and their salary can vary based on the requirement of a puppet. Some puppet makers will have an hourly rate or a daily rate, based on their level of expertise. View our What does an Actor/Performer do? blog for what a puppeteer or performer could earn. Some large scale shows that require Puppet Makers as part of the regular crew, can pay up to £850 per week.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://bristololdvic.org.uk/blog/no-strings-attached-10-mins-with-sam-wilde-puppetry-designer
https://jobs.nationaltheatre.org.uk/job/puppet-technician-no-2-war-horse?source=google.com
https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/Salaries/puppet-designer-salary-SRCH_KO0,15.htm
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/z6tgscw/revision/1
Updated: 6th June 2024
Anyone looking for a career in backstage and technical theatre should first consider what area most interests them. Sound Technicians, often referred to as Sound Engineers, produce, amplify, mix, record, sync and reproduce sound, effects and music for theatre rehearsals, theatre productions and special events. They’re also responsible for looking over the equipment, checking connections, maintaining sound quality and coordinating staff.
Formal qualifications are not essential as on-the-job training is provided, but many Sound Technicians complete qualifications in the field to prepare them for this career and also to increase their chances of being employed. Technician apprenticeships are a good way to learn on the job, build a network and specialise later on.
Find apprenticeship opportunities in backstage roles to help you get into theatre here
Sound Technicians can begin by completing an apprenticeship or work experience at a local theatre venue or with a local theatre company. You can do this alongside specific sound courses. All of this will help build your network of contacts and future employers. You can research and learn about sound mixing and editing software (e.g., Pro Tools, Adobe Audition, Digico, QLab and Mainstage) to develop your skill set in your own time. Some venues will have in-house technicians that may cover both sound and lighting. Sound Technicians may want to work towards becoming Head of Sound.
A starting salary for a Sound Technician can be an apprenticeship wage or on a minimum wage zero hour contract. Starting out as a Sound Operator, you should receive £49.61 for a 3 hour show call (based on SOLT/BECTU 2024 rates). Sound Technicians on specific tours or productions can earn a weekly fee, with in-house technicians either working as a casual, or receiving a regular salary.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://careerswales.gov.wales/job-information/theatre-sound-technician/job-role
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/sound-technician-broadcasting-film-video
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/live-sound-engineer
https://uk.indeed.com/cmp/National-Theatre/salaries/Sound-Technician
Photo: Alex Brenner
Updated: 6th June 2024
A Circus Performer can perform solo or as part of a group, specialising in one or more circus art forms. Circus arts can include the following:
Circus Performers can perform an act based on several different skills and perform them to an audience often in street theatre, festivals or parties and corporate events. Circus Performers also use their skills in other areas of performing arts like theatre, opera and film.
Find opportunities in circus performance from a cross the theatre industry here
You do not need any formal qualifications to be a Circus Performer, however this is an option. You can complete a Degree in Circus Arts or a BTEC in Circus Arts. You can also complete workshops and part-time courses in order to gain the skills you need to be an ideal Circus Performer. Studying drama, performance or dance would also be beneficial.
Find more opportunities in drama and dance to help you get into theatre here
You would usually specialise in one act and as your career continues you will be able to develop your skills and create new acts. You can join a circus company or audition for any acrobatic roles available in theatre productions. Sometimes you can take your act to a festival such as Edinburgh Fringe Festival to promote your work. Some Circus Performers begin performing in street theatre and then move into larger scale shows and touring productions.
The earnings of circus performers can vary widely depending on factors such as their level of skill, experience, specialisation, the size and reputation of the company, and the demand for their act. While some circus performers may earn modest salaries or hourly wages, others, particularly those with unique talents or high-demand skills, may command higher fees or salaries. See our Actor/Performer blog here for a further idea on performance rates.
The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-circus-performer
https://casting.cirquedusoleil.com/apply/video-demo/circus-performers
https://www.theguardian.com/money/2020/jan/18/i-earned-72000-as-a-circus-performer-last-year
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 3rd June 2024
