Steven Kavuma, the Associate Director of Royal & Derngate's production of Holes, tells us what his role is, how he got into theatre and his advice for anyone looking to pursue a career in the theatre industry.
Transcript:
Interviewers: Hiya, I'm Martin, and I'm Kayla, and today we're here with Steven Kavum and Steven is the Associate Director in the Royal & Derngate's production of Holes. So, Steven could you tell us about your role in the production as a whole?
Steven: Yes, so my role is a lot of things. There are a lot of responsibilities. So the Associate Director is the person who supports the Director and all the other teams around and making sure the production goes as smoothly as possible. Because it's a touring production and it has a certain time limit, that means that I, as the Associate Director, take care of the show when the Director is off. So I'm responsible for how the show goes on, to make sure that it's still a continuous production as it was on the opening night. It's quite different to being an Assistant Director. An Assistant Director is you're still supporting the logistics and the running of the show, but you don't have the responsibility of taking care of a show.
Interviewer: So how did you get into the role of being an Associate Director?
Steven: So I started off as being an Actor, and soon I realised that wasn't my passion and I wanted to do more sort of directing stuff, and when I was younger I would get my mates to be in my own little plays and I'd direct them and it would be after school directing our own little shows, and that gave me a little insight of how I can work as a Director and I was constantly pulling those muscles and seeing how they could be improved. Then I went to drama school which is like university but not university. So there's more specialised, more rounded training.
Interviewer: Is there any sort of advice that you'd want to give other people who may want to get into the acting industry or be an Associate Director as well? Anything of that sort as well?
Steven: I think the only advice is that anyone can do it. Anyone can be a Director and we're sort of Directors already organically.
Find opportunities to help you get into directing here.
Published: 27 March 2020
Photo: Alex Brenner
Scotland has a thriving theatre scene that is recognised internationally. It is completely possible to live in Scotland and work within its amazing theatre industry. This blog highlights where you can find out more about Scottish Theatre.
What are producing theatres? Producing theatres are theatres that choose their own programme of productions (often referred to as a ‘season’) and create their productions as opposed to smaller theatres who host touring productions or upcoming productions for a short period of time. Their main focus is to present their own productions, however, they can co-produce with other theatres and companies to present work to add to or complete their season.
Below are a number of well-known producing theatres in Scotland.
Scotland’s New Writing Theatre.
Artistic Director David Greig, one of Scotland’s most celebrated contemporary Playwrights.
Currently undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment and putting work on at the Tramway in Glasgow in the meantime.
Mid-scale theatre in the centre of Glasgow. The current Artistic Director Andy Arnold also founded The Arches, Glasgow’s legendary contemporary performance space which unfortunately closed in 2015.
The last remaining repertory company in Scotland meaning they focus on one repertoire of performances e.g. opera. They have a mixture of permanently employed and shorter-term Actors.
A major venue in the Highlands of Scotland, producing a summer season of 6 plays offered in daily rotation.
Established in 2007 and has a unique structure, being ‘without theatre walls’, dedicated to making work in partnership across Scotland.
Receiving theatres or 'houses' host visiting companies who's productions have been developed elsewhere and are touring around a number of venues
Below are some well-known receiving houses in Scotland
One of Scotland's most historic and significant theatre's, it presents first class shows from a wide range of genres and provides Glasgow's flourishing amateur groups with a high-profile stage.
Presents quality drama, dance, comedy and musicals and is home to residents Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet.
Find out what opportunities are available at King's Theatre and Theatre Royal here.
Open since 1976, this is a large theatre, cinema and arts venue.
This is a performing arts venue used primarily for performances of opera and ballet, large-scale musical events and touring groups. It also has a capacity of 1,915.
This is one of Scotland's most historical and important theatres having been active since 1906.
This theatre is a 'learning theatre'. Those who study at the nearby University of the West of Scotland have direct access to the resource of the Gaiety Theatre to assist with their studies.
This is a multi-arts venue locations on the main campus of the University of Stirling, Scotland. They offer a varied programme of events and experiences including cinema, comedy, dance, exhibitions, music, opera and theatre
The Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh
This is a mid-scale performing arts venue and it part of a wider complex, incorporating council offices. As a whole this is called Brunton Memorial Hall.
Established producing theatre buildings will have permanent production staff of Carpenters, Costume Makers, Technicians and Stage Managers and hire freelance stage and Lighting Designers for each production if needed. See what Carpenters, Costume Makers, Sound Technicians, Lighting Technicians and Stage Managers do here.
Read our blog ‘How to become a freelancer in the theatre industry’ here.
Producing theatres will have a team who manage the building, and a team to market and promote the theatres upcoming season (upcoming shows) to the public. See what a Theatre Marketer does here.
They will also have a team of community and education staff who work with communities and in schools and colleges to encourage people to attend the theatre through different stages of education and participatory projects. See what a Theatre Education Manager does.
Small producing theatres have very small production teams, some not at all and hire freelance staff when needed. These theatres sometimes hire large producing theatres to design and create their sets and costumes. Alternatively they can hire an external company to create their sets and costumes.
Read our blog ‘How to become a freelancer in the theatre industry’ here.
These smaller theatres usually consist of less than 5 employees including an Artistic Director, Producer or General Manager and possibly some administrative support. They don’t have permanent production/technical staff or Actors.
Village halls also accommodate a small audience run by volunteers who want to bring theatre to their village. Despite being small, shows at these venues are produced to a high quality and can go on to do a touring circuit. In the Highlands and Islands there are at least 90 village halls of this size.
Scotland has a world-renowned children’s theatre sector which includes a national organisation called Imaginate. Imaginate is dedicated to promoting and supporting theatre and dance for children and young people, including the annual Edinburgh International Children's Festival.
There is an organisation in Scotland dedicated to supporting playwrights called Playwrights’ Studio Scotland.
This is the nation’s only arts organisation exclusively dedicated to the long-term support, development and promotion of Scotland’s Playwrights. They work actively with Playwrights, connecting them with audiences and organisations, for the enrichment and enjoyment of the people of Scotland and beyond.
The Traverse Theatre is Scotland’s new writing theatre. They work with the newest and rawest talent - with an emphasis on those based in Scotland - working on it to become the art, artists and performances that can be seen on stages through a variety of creative learning and literary programmes.
There are a variety of theatre companies who produce work made by Artists with disabilities. These include:
Take our quiz and find opportunities in the Scotland area here.
All the above information was given to us by the Federation of Scottish Theatre. They are the membership and development body for Scotland and look to promote all things Scottish Theatre so it's a good idea to check them out too.
Photo: Alex Brenner
Published: 23 December 2019
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.
Search training, experience and funding opportunities from across the theatre industry here
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.
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
https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/weapons-master-70399/
https://www.rsc.org.uk/blogs/out-of-the-spotlight/armoury
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 6th June 2024
The Automation Department is responsible for a production’s moving scenery, creating and controlling a complex sequence of scene changes that happen on stage. For example, in The Lion King, the stage is raised to represent Pride Rock at the beginning of the production and then this part of the stage is lowered to make the stage a flat surface.
The automation system can control elements such as electric motors, hydraulics and pneumatics to move lifts, flying scenery and stage trucks.
Search training, experience and funding opportunities to help you get into theatre here
For large-scale theatrical productions, these are some common roles that are employed for the duration of the production run. As every production is different, the staff in these roles will have knowledge and experience relevant to the production’s specific requirements.
Other roles that can be involved within the field of Automation include Engineers, Mechanics, Production Staff and Programmers.
Automation can be a highly specific field. It is possible to train within a theatre, however the below qualification areas may also help:
See training opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Automation is a very specific job within theatre. You can often transition from a Stage Crew or Stagehand position into Automation. Once you are trained up into this position, you have a very distinct skill set and can then transfer from show to show. Smaller productions tend to have smaller or simpler sets so you may mostly be working on larger productions.
Find out what Backstage Crew members do here.
The Head of Automation will have a weekly basic show fee of £840-£900 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
http://www.theatrecrafts.com/pages/home/topics/automation-scenic/
https://tinathemusical.com/uk/content/uploads/2021/06/Head-of-Automation-Job-Description-TTM.pdf
https://members.bectu.org.uk/advice-resources/library/3176
https://www.thestage.co.uk/advice/2017/theatre-automation-operator/
https://www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk/real-jobs/theatre-automation-engineer-ben-phillips/
https://www.abtt.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/0000063274.pdf
Photo: Alex Brenner
Updated: 6th June 2024
Thank you to Automation Operator/ Programmer Nick Page for providing information for this blog post. Nick runs the website automation.london, which helps connect current Automation vacancies with relevant and experienced Automation professionals.
Where do you start when you are looking for a career in the theatre industry? It’s challenging getting a job in any industry and the competitive nature of the theatre industry is often seen as a barrier. If you follow our top 10 tips, you will definitely be in a better position to not only get a job in the theatre industry but also be a success in your chosen field.
Having goals is something that will help you in the long run as it will give you something to work towards. But don’t forget, the journey to any career is never a straight, easy path - especially in theatre. There will be things that take you in all different directions and this is normal. As long as you don’t lose sight of what you want to gain and what you want your end goal to be, you will find the right career in theatre for you.
Not everyone wants to study and that’s fine because that’s not the only way to begin your theatre career or be successful within the theatre industry. There are so many ways to do this so you must do your research to find out what these ways are. We’ve made it easy for you because we’ve put all this information in one place. It’s good to have a rough idea of what job role you would like to pursue within the theatre industry. If you’re not sure what job in theatre you are best suited to, don’t worry. Our handy blogs describing different jobs within theatre will help give you an insight to the many different roles available and what you need to do to get there.
Take a look at our job descriptions here.
It will benefit you so much to have as much experience within your chosen area of theatre as possible, especially if you don’t want to study. If you don’t have a formal qualification (for example, a degree), having experience is what is going to make you stand out to potential employers when applying for jobs. Experience comes in many different forms but the three main forms are work experience, apprenticeships and internships. You can find information about all three of these experience opportunities here.
This is always a good suggestion because let’s face it, who doesn’t want to go to the theatre? Not only that but seeing a variety of different theatre shows will help you if you’re interested in a particular area of theatre e.g. if you’re interested in lighting you can take notes of lighting designs which peak your interest or are particularly inventive. Some theatre tickets can be a little expensive but don’t worry we’ve got that covered too. You can find a number of different ticket schemes where you can get discounted theatre tickets right here.
This is the 21st century and almost everything is on social media. Try and be as active as you can without becoming anti-social. It’s a great tool to keep up-to-date with industry news, shows and upcoming theatremakers. It may sound obvious but never post any offensive or discriminating posts on any of your social media channels. Some employers like to view their employees social media pages and you don’t want something inappropriate to pop up that you wrote 10 years ago!
This can be daunting but once you get into the flow of it, it can be really fun and so invaluable to you in the future. You should network every chance you get and this doesn’t always have to be at a networking event; it may be a fellow Performer you met at an audition or your best friends cousin who is the Head of Lighting behind Wicked the musical. There are also loads of networking events available for young theatremakers which you can find here.
It may be difficult at times to remain positive when starting out in a new career in theatre but it is really important to approach everything with positivity, especially when you’re going for interviews/auditions. If you’re an Actor auditioning can be constant throughout your career and you must always go into your auditions thinking that anything is possible. This is the same with any interviews for offstage roles too. If you go in with a negative attitude it will only go downhill from there.
When you’re new in the industry (even when you are more established) you’re likely to make mistakes. Of course you are, you’re only human and this is totally natural. Accept you have made a mistake but always make sure you have learnt from the experience and then move on to the next thing. There is no need to lose sleep over a little mistake because this may affect your ability to complete other tasks and could lead you to make more mistakes. Accept it, learn from it and move on to the next thing.
When you’re at the very beginning of your career in theatre, it’s wise to be realistic about what you want to achieve as well as what you are able to achieve. If you begin with an unrealistic goal it is unlikely you will get there at the beginning of your career and this can knock your confidence. Remember, every little step counts and these things take time.
Fringe Theatres and Festivals are a popular way to get a new piece of theatre noticed and produced. It can also be a great way to kick start your theatre career. Fringe venues are all over the country and features every type of theatre you can imagine. Most shows are brand new that no one has ever seen before. One of the more well-known fringe festivals is Edinburgh Fringe. The TV show Fleabag started as a one woman show at the Festival. It was later adapted into an internationally famous award-winning TV show that we all know. Fringe theatre is a great opportunity to learn, get tips and ideas on theatre, performance, comedy and more, the sky's the limit. Remember to always make sure you are paid fairly when working on the fringe.
https://www.ypia.co.uk/posts/10-tips-for-getting-into-theatre
https://targetcareers.co.uk/career-sectors/arts-and-creative/1015387-careers-in-theatre
There are many different types of disabilities people can have or identify as having. One of these disabilities are learning disabilities which again can mean a number of different things.
A learning disability affects the way a person learns new things throughout their lifetime. This can affect the way a person understands information and how they communicate. Around 1.5 million people in the UK have a learning disability and it’s thought up to 350,000 people have a severe learning disability and this figure is increasing.
If you’d like to learn more about learning disabilities please see the NHS website for more information.
We interviewed Dominick Rutter from Bradford who is a training Actor and happens to have a learning disability. He is currently training in the Performance Academy at leading learning disability theatre company Mind the Gap. Dominick answered a few questions for us about his journey pursuing a career within the theatre industry with a learning disability.
My biggest inspiration is Lee Evans, so I’ve always wanted to get into comedy. I don’t think I’d be very confident as a solo Comedian but I would love to be a part of an ensemble in a TV show like Phoenix Nights or Men Behaving Badly. Training on Mind the Gap’s Performance Academy course is helping me develop my skills in acting as part of a group.
I don’t know why they would as they wouldn’t know what I was capable of without meeting me. For me, everyone is equal, whether they have a disability or not and should be treated the same way. It’s not something I worry about to be honest.
FACT: All employers must follow the Equal Opportunities Policy in any industry. The Equal Opportunities Policy (EOP) are guidelines put in place to ensure an organisation commits to fairness amongst applicants for new jobs and existing staff members. Basically, if you apply for a job, the employer cannot discriminate against you for any reason and you will be treated equally like everyone else.
I think it’s a difficult industry for anybody to get into really, but you need to be confident and keep trying, whatever your situation is.
I want to make something of my life. I want to do something that I’ve never done before and I like to challenge myself. The world of theatre and TV seems to be opening up for people with learning disabilities at the moment so it’s an exciting time; I want to be part of that. I’m inspired by people such as Liam Bairstow on Coronation Street and Lost Voice Guy, their success motivates me.
[Laughs] I don’t think so. If Gok Wan applied for a job in a costume department, I don’t think anyone would question his skills. If you want to work in a certain area in theatre, it shouldn’t matter who you are.
FACT: Job roles within the theatre industry are becoming more ‘gender neutral’ as one role is not deemed more for a woman and another more for a man. Women and men can pursue any role within the theatre industry as long as they are the right person for the role.
Not at all! Nothing stops me from doing what I want to do. I don’t feel like I’ve faced barriers in my life because of my disability and I’m determined to achieve what I want out of life.
Go for it, you just need to apply, what have you got to lose? You’ve only got one life and you’ve got to do what you want to do. If people think you can’t work in theatre, prove them wrong!
I hope so. When I was looking for a course in acting for people with learning disabilities, I was lucky enough to live in Bradford and have heard of Mind the Gap. Hopefully Get Into Theatre will be useful for people all over the country to find courses that are right for them.
Take a look at our opportunities that are suitable for those with learning disabilities.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/learning-disabilities/
http://www.mind-the-gap.org.uk/
Photo: Mind The Gap
Published: 14 November 2019
A Theatre Carpenter is a stagehand (maker/craftsperson) who builds sets and stage elements. They work with materials such as woods and metals and use techniques such as woodworking and welding. The Theatre Carpenter team will include a Master Carpenter who acts as management.
Responsibilities and duties of a Theatre Carpenter in this area depend on the needs of the Set Designer and Director and also the size of the theatre.
Master Carpenter
Stage Carpenter
There are no formal qualifications required for this role, however a formal qualification in one of the following subjects would be beneficial:
There are many apprenticeships available where you can learn carpentry and this is normally the route Carpenters take to train this craft. It is also helpful to have certifications in health and safety practices, such as a CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card in the UK.
Find opportunities in carpentry to help you get into theatre here
Many Theatre Carpenters are self-employed. You must be able to promote yourself within the industry. You will often have a network of Production Managers, Set Designers and Producers. Read our blog 'How to become a freelancer in theatre' here. Once you build a portfolio and a reputation, you should get more regular work. Theatre Carpenters often start out as a apprentices or assistants.
Grade 1 or 2 rates for 2023-2025 as per the SOLT/BECTU Agreement suggests a minimum weekly rate of £717.57- £840.91. This would be for a Deputy Master Carpenter and Master Carpenter working 40 hours per week. As a freelancer you will set your own rates based on the level work required per production, which can vary depending on the materials and level of skill needed.
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://members.bectu.org.uk/advice-resources/library/3176
https://work.chron.com/carpenter-theater-16327.html
https://www.ucas.com/ucas/after-gcses/find-career-ideas/explore-jobs/job-profile/carpenter
https://www.payscale.com/research/UK/Job=Master_Carpenter/Hourly_Rate
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 6th June 2024
A Theatre Electrician is responsible for all non-design aspects of the lighting in a theatre production, as well as maintaining and fixing the lanterns. They may also be involved in any electrical elements of a production which can include special effects and sound systems.
Training often takes place on the job however there are formal qualifications and workshops you can complete in the following areas:
Search training and experience opportunities to help you become a theatre Electrician here
Work can often include heights and physical work.
Many individuals start their careers by working as Electricians or Lighting Technicians in theatres, production companies or in other industries. This provides hands-on experience with equipment and operations. Aspiring Deputy or Chief Electricians often pursue specialised education or training in technical theatre, electrical engineering, or related fields. This can include obtaining a degree, training or certification programmes focused on theatrical lighting and electrical systems.
An Electrician in general can earn roughly £32K+ per year, however this may differ per theatre environment and might be combined with other roles.
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://successatschool.org/advicedetails/174/60-Second-Interview:-Theatre-Electrician
http://www.onstagelighting.co.uk/learn-stage-lighting/theatre-electrician-stage-lighting-education/
https://gradireland.com/careers-advice/job-descriptions/theatre-lighting-technician
https://www.electriciancourses4u.co.uk/useful-resources/electrician-salary/
https://uk.indeed.com/cmp/Ambassador-Theatre-Group/salaries/Electrician
https://www.artsjobs.org.uk/jobs/20240
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 6th June 2024
When a production goes on tour to different locations it requires a Tour Manager. A Tour Manager books venues, travel and accommodation for cast members and ensures the tour runs smoothly. In some instances, a Producer can also take on the role of Tour Manager.
Search training, experience and funding opportunities to help you get into theatre
It is not essential to have a qualification to become a Tour Manager. However, a formal qualification in any of the following subjects could be beneficial:
Apprenticeships within the industry would be helpful and provide a useful background for moving into tour management later.
Search for apprenticeships from across the theatre industry here
Any experience working in theatre production is beneficial. You can help with school and college productions or get experience at your local theatre. It’s possible to start your career as an Administrator or Tour Assistant and work your way toward becoming a Tour Manager. Focus on your organisational and problem solving skills as these are essential for this line of work.
Salary is based on development within a role and experience. This role can be salaried or as a freelance fee. On average, a Tour Manager can earn on anywhere between £25K and £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.nationaltheatre.org.uk/job/touring-coordinator?source=jobs.theguardian.com
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/tour-manager
https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/Salaries/tour-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,12.htm
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/tour-manager
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 7th June 2024
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
