Backstage Crew members are also referred to as Stagehands and/or Stage Technicians. They help backstage at theatre productions and prepare everything before the show which includes props, scenery, lighting and sound. Backstage Crew support the Designers and Performers with the running of the show.
You can find backstage opportunities using The Stage Jobs website here.
You can find backstage opportunities on the Get Into Theatre website here.
Formal qualifications are not essential for Backstage Crew roles. However it does help if you have one of the following qualifications:
It is often the case that people train in another area of theatre and transition into the role of a member of the Backstage Crew. For example, you can train as a Set Designer or a Performer and over the course of your career you can learn new skills and gain experience and change your career path to backstage.
You can find training opportunities for a career backstage 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 work on the Get Into Theatre website here.
A full-time Backstage Crew member can earn between £14k and £18k per year depending on the location of your employment. Some crew members work on a freelance or part-time basis. Freelance rates vary depending on the performances and the location of the theatre.
https://www.allaboutcareers.com/careers/job-profile/stagehand
https://ccskills.org.uk/careers/advice/article/backstage-crew
Photo: Alex Brenner
Published: 27 August 2019