Navigating a route into the theatre industry can be difficult, let alone for parents, guardians and carers who want to support their young person and don’t know where to start. Or, who have concerns about the industry itself.
We’ve compiled a list of the FAQs often asked by caregivers when trying to offer advice to their child, in the hope that you have a few more facts and understanding about the industry to guide you and ease your concerns:
There are many roles in theatre that are freelance, have short-term contracts or are casual, which is often what causes worry about job stability. However, many of these roles are protected by various unions (Equity, BECTU/UK Theatre SOLT, etc. You can find more about Unions here). From rates of pay, holidays and hours, these bodies ensure the rights of workers are safeguarded. There are also many venue or company based roles that are full-time/part-time and permanent, with all the benefits of the usual PAYE roles you may see in other industries (sometimes with the added bonus of free tickets to events!)
Visit our Complete List of Jobs in the Theatre Industry to get a flavour on the types of roles that could be venue or company based and those that could be freelance and supported by unions. Or, How to Become a Freelancer to see how you can support your young person in the early stages of working this way.
Like all industries, rates of pay and wage brackets vary massively dependant on the role, the organisation, the location, your experience and the responsibility. Unions such as Equity, BECTU, Writer’s Guild etc, offer weekly pay recommendations for freelance roles. Equity’s recommended minimum rate for Actors, Stage Managers and Choreographers will be £630.90 in the 26/27 financial year. Artistic or Executive Directors of large-scale and national venues can make upwards of £100k+ per year. Visit our Complete List of Jobs in the Theatre Industry which includes an up-to-date pay rate for each role, where possible.
Being freelance, touring and working with different companies can allow for more variation and career development in shorter spaces of time, compared to industries with more linear career pathways. Transferable skills in theatre roles can often lend themselves to varying roles across the sector and, should someone wish to, they can follow their developing interests. People working in the industry can start in casual roles (Front of House, Stage Crew, etc) to allow them the space and time to develop and explore which path they would like to take. Nevertheless, there are also more traditional progression pathways within departments that could start as an apprenticeship and lead to being the head of that department, such as Head of Wigs or Head of Lighting.
Although a lot of roles in theatre do not require certain GCSEs, A Levels or further education qualifications specific to the arts, that's not to say that studying drama, music or art would not be beneficial to your young person or their career journey. The transferable skills and wellness benefits linked to arts-based subjects are massive. Having a firm understanding in a subject area is not a necessity but could ensure a young person has the foundations, shared language and confidence to springboard into the theatre industry. Young people still in education can also gain experience through youth theatres, workshops or various other opportunities, in addition to their studies. You can find opportunities in your area here.
Get Into Theatre lists thousands of up-to-date theatre opportunities, many of which are free, have bursary assistance, grants, travel subsistence or pay the placement holder themselves (such as apprenticeships or funding). You can explore these opportunities here. Gaining experience or supporting your young person on their career journey into theatre does not have to rely on finances.
Are you a parent or guardian and have a question you’d like to see answered in our FAQs for parents? Send them to help@getintotheatre.org
You can also read our blog on What advice can I give my child who wants to work in theatre?
Added 4th Sept 2024
Photo ID 199571345 @ Prostockstudio | Dreamstime.com
Over the last several years the UK theatre sector has been moving towards more environmentally sustainable practices. As the urgency of the climate and biodiversity crisis increases, it is more important than ever that we ensure the way we make theatre is as green as possible. The Theatre Green Book is a grassroots initiative that aims to do this, by setting common standards for sustainable theatre across all areas of theatre practice: Productions, Operations, and Buildings. Originally launched in 2021, the Theatre Green Book published a second volume in July 2024 and includes a range of tools to support the UK theatre sector to reach net zero by 2030.
As the next generation of theatre makers, it is vital that students and young people bring their energy, passion, and climate-consciousness with them into the sector, whether that is through work made while still in education, or through self-owned production companies, or when entering employment in large-scale companies. This applies to all theatre practitioners, whether on or off stage: everyone has a part to play.
"Young people are the future of this industry and our planet, their involvement is vital at every level to bring a greener future." – The Green Captains
The Green Captains were formed in 2021 in response to the Theatre Green Book. Originally a group of students from various drama schools, the Green Captains are now extending into industry and apprenticeships as well as schools and colleges. The Green Captains exist to empower students and young professionals to explore and develop more sustainable ways of working, providing a support network to inspire and innovate. They are working to embed the Theatre Green Book into education and professional practice. You can find out more and get involved via the Theatre Green Book Resources page.
Employers within the theatre sector are increasingly expecting employees and freelancers to think about their work in sustainable terms, with many starting to add it into job descriptions. The Theatre Green Book hosted an Education Conference in June 2024, which covered areas from employer expectations to great work already being done in drama schools. You can watch clips from the conference on the Theatre Green Book Education page.
You don’t have to wait until leaving school or graduating to be able to start your green theatre journey. There are lots of useful resources online, and you can familiarize yourself with the Theatre Green Book website. To get started, you can watch the Introduction Video, and have a look through the Theatre Green Book and the Production Calculator. You can sign up to the Theatre Green Book website, and see what elements of the guidance might be relevant to you. If you make productions as part of a course or are a recently-graduated company making work on the fringe, you can speak with your team about signing up to the Theatre Green Book as an organisation, and start working towards the Theatre Green Book standards for your production.
Laura Sedgwick - Theatre Green Book Producer
Added: 29.08.2024
Photo credit Manuel Harlan: The Children at Nottingham Playhouse which received Theatre Green Book Basic Level status
A Dance Captain is a member of the cast or company who is responsible for overseeing and maintaining the artistic standards of all choreography and musical staging within a production.
The Dance Captain works closely with the Associate Director or Director, the Stage Manager and the Choreographer. A Dance Captain differs from a Choreographer as they work with and as part of the ensemble to ensure what the Choreographer has created is up to the standard needed for the show.
A Dance Captain often undertakes the following duties:
Most Dance Captains are also dancers within the show. This means that they might get an Understudy or Swing to play their part on the night so they can watch and make notes on the show. They then use these notes to rehearse with the Dancers and ensure the choreography is maintained. They may also have to help work out who plays what role if someone within the ensemble is absent.
A lot of Dancers do not need a formal qualification but formal training could be beneficial to help learn and develop your technique. Your training as a Dancer will help you find opportunities to be a Dance Captain. One of the following training courses could be useful to help you develop the skills needed to become a Dancer and Dance Captain:
See dance training opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Most Dance Captains begin as a member of the ensemble. The Director and Choreographer will appoint a Dance Captain for the particular piece of choreography. Throughout your career you could then become an Assistant Choreographer and then a Choreographer.
This amount can vary depending on the size of the production, the theatre and the number of tickets sold. Equity rates for 2024/25 state Dance Captains earn an extra £50 per week on top of their performers’s rate. See our blog 'What does an Actor do?' for more details on their pay.
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.
See dance training opportunities offered across the theatre industry here
https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/dance-captain-job-explained-77026
https://www.mgcfutures.com/careers/dance-captain
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 23rd May 2024
A Stage Door is the main entry point for performers, staff, and sometimes visitors who are not part of the general audience. The Stage Door team, Keeper or Operator will be the person who ensures the smooth running of this space.
Find training, experience and funding opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Whilst there are no specific requirements when working on Stage Door, many individuals start or do this alongside other entry-level roles such as Receptionist, Security Officer, or Administrative Assistant. These roles provide experience in customer service, security, and administrative tasks.
Once employed, on-the-job training will help you understand the specific procedures of the theatre. This includes security measures, communication systems, and emergency procedures. As you gain experience, you may take on more responsibilities or move to larger or more prestigious theatres. Look for job openings in theatres for Stage Door Keeper or similar positions. Theatre websites, social media and industry publications are good places to search, or by talking to Stage Door staff in venues.
Read our blog 'What does work experience in theatre look like' to find out where to start.
Stage Door Keepers can either be paid hourly or they can earn a salary. The team are usually on a rota and can work in shifts to cover the long hours the building is open. This is often minimum wage, being £10-£15 per hour. SOLT/Bectu 2024 suggest a weekly 40 hour wage of £557.78.
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.artsjobs.org.uk/jobs/search/43442
https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/Salaries/stage-door-keeper-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.artsjobs.org.uk/jobs/search/43442
https://www.artsjobs.org.uk/jobs/15436
https://bridgetheatre.co.uk/work-with-us/stage-door-keeper/
https://members.bectu.org.uk/advice-resources/library/3176
Published: 7th June 2024
A Press and Publicity role involves managing the publicity and promotion of theatrical productions to generate media coverage, attract audiences, and enhance the public image of the theatre company or venue. They will often issue press releases to local journalists and national newspapers.
See also Social Media Manager and Marketing for similar roles.
Find training, experience and funding opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Many individuals start their journey by pursuing a degree in a relevant field such as Public Relations, Communications, or Marketing. During their studies, they may participate in internships, extracurricular activities, or student organisations related to Media, Journalism, or the Arts. Building a network of journalists and press contacts is also very useful.
Individuals may begin their careers in entry-level positions such as PR Assistant, Communications Coordinator, or Marketing Assistant within PR agencies, media outlets, or arts organisations. These roles provide valuable hands-on experience in media relations, writing, and campaign coordination.
Read our blog 'What does work experience in theatre look like' to find out where to start.
Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. Press and Publicity roles can often be combined with other roles, such as Marketing. Working in this area holds a salary of around £25k-£35k.
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://jobs.theguardian.com/job/9020561/publicist-and-administrator/?LinkSource=PremiumListing
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zfrq92p#zfrwjsg
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/public-relations-officer#
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/public-relations-officer
Published: 7th June 2024
An Archivist is responsible for managing and preserving the historical records and materials related to the theatre's productions, activities and heritage. This role involves collecting, organising, cataloguing, and preserving documents, artefacts, photographs, recordings, and other materials of historical significance to the theatre.
Find training, experience and funding opportunities to help you get into theatre here
A degree in a relevant field such as Archival Studies, Library Science, History, or Theatre Studies is often required. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree or postgraduate qualification in Archival Studies or a related discipline.
What skills do I need to be an Archivist?
Many aspiring theatre archivists start their careers in entry-level roles such as Archival Assistants, Library Assistants, or Museum Technicians. These positions provide opportunities to gain practical experience in archival tasks and procedures, along with work experience placements.
Read our blog 'What does work experience in theatre look like' to find out where to start.
The Archives and Records Association (ARA) recommends a minimum salary of £30,233 to £35,832 for archivists with experience.
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/archivist
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/archivist
https://careerswales.gov.wales/job-information/archivist/job-role
Published: 6th June 2024
A Social Media Manager is responsible for managing and enhancing the theatre's presence on social media platforms. This role involves creating engaging content, interacting with audiences, and implementing social media strategies to promote productions, events, and the theatre's brand.
While you do not need a degree for this role, a degree in Marketing, Communications, Journalism, or a related field is helpful. Also a portfolio of your own work and reference to campaigns you admire is beneficial to talk to employers about.
Starting in roles such as Social Media Assistant, Digital Marketing Coordinator, or Content Creator provides foundational experience. With experience, individuals can advance to Social Media Manager or Digital Marketing Manager roles. An apprenticeship or work experience in a Marketing Department can help you develop in your early career.
Read our blog 'What does work experience in theatre look like' to find out where to start.
A Social Media Manager can earn an average of £25k - £35k per year.
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://cdn.shakespearesglobe.com/uploads/2022/12/Social-Media-Manager-JD-Dec-2022.pdf
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/social-media-manager
Published: 6th June 2024
The Accounts Manager is responsible for managing the financial activities and accounts of a theatre. This role involves overseeing financial transactions, maintaining accurate financial records, preparing budgets and financial reports, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
A degree, training or qualifications in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is typically required.
Search through training opportunities from across the theatre industry
Starting in roles such as Finance Assistant, Junior Accountant, or Book-keeper provides foundational experience. With experience, individuals can advance to roles such as Senior Accountant, Finance Director and Chief Financial Officer.
An Accounts Manager can earn anywhere between £27k - £35k per year.
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://opportunities.creativeaccess.org.uk/job/client-account-manager-27779
https://www.theticketingbusiness.com/jobs/agency-sales-account-manager-ambassador-theatre-group-uk/
https://www.randstad.co.uk/career-advice/job-profiles/account-manager
A Licensing Manager is responsible for managing the legal and administrative aspects of securing and overseeing licences for productions. This role ensures that the theatre complies with all licensing requirements and that all necessary permissions are obtained for the use of scripts, music, and other intellectual property. Producers can sometimes take on this role for specific productions.
Search training, experience and funding opportunities to help you get into theatre here
A degree in Law, Business Administration, Arts Management, or a related field can be beneficial to this role.
Starting in roles such as Licensing Coordinator, Contracts Administrator, or Legal Assistant provides foundational experience.
Licensing Managers can earn anywhere from £30k - £40k per year.
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.artsjobs.org.uk/jobs/search/36754
Published: 6th June 2024
The Head of Sales plays a crucial role in revenue generation through ticket sales, memberships, and other income streams. This position involves strategic planning, team management, and collaboration with marketing and other departments to maximise the theatre’s commercial success.
What are the main responsibilities of the Head of Sales?
A degree in Business Administration, Arts Administration, Marketing, Sales, or a related field can be beneficial, while working your way up to Head of Sales.
Search training opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Starting in roles such as Box Office, Sales Representative, Account Manager, or Customer Service positions provides foundational sales experience. You can advance to roles such as Sales Manager or Marketing Manager before becoming Head of Sales.
The Head of Sales can typically earn anywhere between £25k+ per year.
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://careers.atg.co.uk/job-search/job-detail.html?jobid=224109
https://uk.indeed.com/cmp/National-Theatre/salaries/Sales-and-Marketing-Manager
https://www.hampsteadtheatre.com/assets/Head-of-Ticketing-Sales-Job-Pack.pdf
