What does a Theatre Armourer do?

An Armourer is in charge of the firearms and blades used in a theatre production. They can also be responsible for pyrotechnics (any special effects using heat, light, gas, smoke or sound) and theatrical trickery. There is a strict policy on firearms being used in the UK, however there is an Act which allows productions to only use decommissioned firearms and blunted or altered blades during a performance as part of the show.

What are the main responsibilities of an Armourer?

Liaising with Directors and ensuring their vision comes to life through the use of pyrotechnics, firearms and blades
Ensure any firearms and blades are safe to use for theatre productions and are aligned with UK laws
Ensure any Performers or staff members handling any firearms or blades know how to use them without causing risk to themselves or others
Delivering safety briefs to the cast
Handing Performers a firearm at the beginning of a scene and retrieving it when the scene is over
Storing any firearms and blades safely to ensure there is no risk to Performers, staff members or audience members
Responsible for the safety and well being of all staff members and audience members

Search training, experience and funding opportunities from across the theatre industry here

What qualifications do I need to be an Armourer?

Licensed firearms handler
Firearms Training and Certification
Knowledge of Firearms Laws and Regulations
Experience in Weapon Handling
Theatrical Experience
Health and Safety Training
Pyrotechnics Training
Mechanics

What skills do I need to be an Armourer?

Knowledge of firearms
Follow health and safety regulations regarding firearms and blades
Communication
Ability to lead a team
Safety cautious
Weapon maintenance
Ethical conduct

What does a career as an Armourer look like?

There are many different elements of being an Armourer and many different skills needed. To pursue a career as an Armourer you must learn the necessary skills and gain specific training. Paul Wanklin is the Senior Armourer at the National Theatre and began his career in the army before seeing a job advertised for an Armourer that showed he had many transferable skills for the position. You can also work in TV and Film as well as Theatre.

How much does an Armourer earn?

Armourers in theatre can have very specific rates or may have a similar show rate as a Stage Manager.

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