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
A Flyperson - also referred to as a Fly Operator - is someone who operates the permanent weighted systems in theatres which are used to raise and lower scenery on stage. To ‘fly something’ means to raise or lower an object via this system. Many theatres have automated flys which use motors and hoists, however some are manual and require someone to operate it known as a Flyperson.
Search opportunities in fly operation and other backstage roles here.
There is no particular degree that is required for this career, though an education in theatrical design or show production is recommended. Flypeople must understand the proper use and maintenance of each component of the fly system, in addition to being experienced in the theatrical production process.
You can also search The Stage Jobs for backstage roles in fly operation here.
The physical demands of this job are some of the most challenging on any theatrical crew. A Flyperson must have the strength for this role and to lift heavy stage weights and this is not to say that the job is only suitable for men. Anyone who is capable of lifting at least 50 pounds comfortably and exceeds 100 pounds in body weight can perform these tasks if properly trained. A Flyperson must be able to work comfortably with heights. Employment opportunities are normally on a full-time basis with resident theatres, however, freelance work is also available. Read our blog ‘How to become a freelancer in theatre.’
Search all careers advice here.
http://getinmedia.com/careers/flyman
Photo: Alex Brenner
Published: 12 August 2019
A Musician in theatre is someone who is skilled at playing one or several musical instruments. Musicians can also read, compose, conduct, perform, orchestrate and arrange music in a variety of different styles. Musicians for theatre often work alongside a band or orchestra to provide live music for a production or performance.
Musicians don’t need any formal qualifications, however they would complete years of training in one or several instruments to be suitable for a position within a band or orchestra. You could train in:
Some Musicians become Actor Musicians
You can study music through school or by taking graded exams, both of which provide valuable skills for aspiring musicians.
Find training opportunities in music to help you get into theatre here
Musicians can often work on a freelance basis and this requires you to keep a record of your previous work, on platforms like SoundCloud, to show to future employers. You must be able to promote yourself to potential employers, social media can be a good way to do this. Read our blog ‘How to be a freelancer in theatre’ for some tips on this. A show can involve anything from 1 to 25 musicians.
The average salary for a musician can vary depending on experience and ability. UK Theatre / Equity Actor-Musician Rates for 2023 - 2024 weekly fee for a top tier Actor Musician playing to a 500-1499 seat audience is £587.86. Within concerts, an Accompanist should expect £38-£70 per rehearsal and £100-£230 per concert.
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.makingmusic.org.uk/faq-type/rates-professional-musicians
https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-musician
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/classical-musician
https://www.yellowbrick.co/blog/music/10-steps-to-becoming-a-musician/
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/musician
Photo: Shutterstock
Update: 4th June 2024
The Deputy Stage Manager often referred to as ‘DSM’ is required to follow the script and write all technical cues in it - ensuring that all crew members perform the correct effects at the correct time. They call “go” to cue lighting, sound, special effects and scene changes. This ensures that the show runs smoothly and according to the predetermined cues and timing. This is called “calling the show”.
Search stage management opportunities here
You do not need any formal qualifications to become a DSM, however any qualifications in the following areas would be beneficial:
Find training opportunities in stage management from across the theatre industry here
Being a DSM is a very crucial role to the success of a production and your involvement is very rewarding. If this is a career you’d like to pursue, begin by applying for entry level positions, work as an apprentice or volunteer and shadow a DSM. This will help you to gain skills and work your way up from there. You can also apply for entry level roles in other positions such as Backstage Crew, casual Technicians or Assistant Stage Manager, although you will need some training or experience before doing these.
Equity 2024/2025 rates for a DSM are £551.31-£556.97 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.equity.org.uk/news/2023/new-agreement-for-subsidised-theatre
https://www.itc-arts.org/rates-of-pay/
https://britishyouthmusictheatre.org/take-part/trainee-schemes/deputy-stage-manager#
https://penguinclub.org.uk/roles/deputy-stage-manager
Photo: Alex Brenner
Updated: 4th June 2024
A Choreographer creates original dance movements and routines for performances and productions. They also develop different interpretations of existing dances for an individual Actor or group of Performers, often referred to as the chorus.
You can search for Choreographer opportunities from across the theatre industry here
A formal qualification is not necessary as Choreographers typically begin their career as Dancers and study a variety of routines. However, here are some useful subjects and courses that you can study to gain knowledge and experience:
Search training opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Here are some subjects that you can study at school which will teach you some useful skills for becoming an Choreographer:
Always keep a showreel of your individual work and where your work has been shown as well as choreography for any previous productions.
Find dance opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Choreographers often begin their careers as Dancers and study from an early age. When they establish a successful dance career they may then transition into an Assistant Choreographer before becoming a Choreographer. You can study through various workshops and always keep active and up to date with the latest trends in the dance world. Some Choreographers work on a freelance basis so self promotion is essential. Read our blog 'How to become a freelancer in theatre' here.
On a project to project basis, the Independent Theatre Council states that the minimum preparatory fee for preparation and up to 2 weeks’ rehearsals is £2,310. If rehearsals continue past this, the weekly fee is £572 or daily fee is £186 (correct as of May 2024).
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 all careers advice with our other blogs here
You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here
References
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/choreographer
https://www.itc-arts.org/rates-of-pay/
https://www.yourfreecareertest.com/choreographer/
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 24th May 2024
A Box Office Manager is responsible for overseeing the sale of all tickets, while also being responsible for transactions and ensuring the security of money exchanged.
Search opportunities to help you get into theatre here
You do not need any formal qualifications to become a Box Office Manager, although customer service and management experience is beneficial. For additional training, Business Administration or Accounting could provide the necessary skills for this role.
You can begin your career as a Box Office staff member as this is a standard requirement to be a Box Office Manager. Many of those who work in the box office often began as Front of House Staff or Ushers. Read our blogs 'What do Front of House Staff do?' and 'What does an Usher do?' It is likely you will have an interview for the role of a Box Office Manager. Read our blog 'How to tackle nerves and anxiety before an interview or audition.'
Box Office Managers can be both full-time, part-time or contracted. SOLT/Bectu rates for 2024 suggest a 40 hour weekly rate of £717.57 for the top role in Box Office.
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.glassdoor.co.uk/Salaries/box-office-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.artsjobs.org.uk/jobs/search/43443
https://www.mgcfutures.com/box-office-manager/
https://www.spektrix.com/en-gb/blog/theatre-box-office-manager-interview
https://members.bectu.org.uk/advice-resources/library/3176
Photo: Alex Brenner
Updated: 6th June 2024
The Company Manager works on a variety of different jobs within the theatre. They work closely with all levels of cast and production staff. They act as a link between the Theatre Manager, the production company and the rest of the company.
You don’t need any formal qualifications, however there are a number of qualifications you can get in different areas which may help you gain skills for the position:
Find training opportunities to help you get into theatre here
There are a number of different ways you can become a Company Manager. You can begin as part of the admin team, assist the Company Manager and then work your way up. You can even start as Front of House or an Usher and learn on the job about communicating between departments.
A general rate of pay is roughly between £25K and £40K.
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://officiallondontheatre.com/news/a-life-in-the-theatre-company-manager-344221/
https://www.berklee.edu/careers/roles/company-manager-theater
Updated: 6th June 2024
A Pattern Cutter creates fabric patterns based on drawings from a Costume Designer, which are then used to make costumes. Patterns can be created by hand or drawn using a computer programme.
Search all theatre opportunities to help you get into theatre here
You do not need any specific qualifications to become a Pattern Cutter and you could choose to train on the job as an Assistant. You can also do a fashion-related course or costume making course, or complete an apprenticeship in a related area. Any related experience you can gain is always helpful, and it helps to keep a portfolio of your work. Read our blog How to make a costume design portfolio here.
Find more theatre careers advice through our blogs here
You can start as a Pattern Cutting Assistant or Sample Machinist with a clothing manufacturer or fashion design company and work your way to Pattern Cutter. Why don't you read our blog 'What Do Theatre Wardrobe Staff Do?' to get a better understanding of the role you can begin your career with.
A starting salary for a Pattern Cutter is roughly £22k per year. You could also be freelance, set your own fee based on the level of work, or work alongside very specific Costume Designers.
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://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/pattern-cutter
https://careerswales.gov.wales/job-information/pattern-cutter/how-to-become
https://www.newvictheatre.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Costume_Cutter_pack_sm.pdf
https://www.getmyfirstjob.co.uk/?TabID=1358&id=662
https://uk.indeed.com/cmp/National-Theatre/salaries/Cutter
https://uk.indeed.com/cmp/New-Vic-Theatre/salaries/Cutter
Photo: Alex Brenner
Updated: 3rd June 2024
