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 BSL (British Sign Language) Interpreter is someone who translates a production for someone who is D/deaf and uses British Sign Language. They are often placed side of stage or, sometimes, as part of the show itself.
Search training, experience and funding opportunities to help you get into theatre here
To be a BSL Interpreter you will need one of the following qualifications:
You can start by working for an organisation that supports D/deaf people, or in a school or college as an educational support assistant for example. You can do a British Sign Language qualification on the job to qualify as an Interpreter whilst also gaining experience in the role. You can work for an agency that signs performances or as a freelancer. It is also worth connecting with theatre companies who specialise in making work with and for D/deaf people such as Graeae Theatre.
Read our blog 'How to become a freelancer in theatre' to learn some tips about how to promote yourself.
Salaries can vary and are often paid per performance as a freelance rate, or through an agency. It depends on how many shows there are, whether the show requires travel (on tour) and the size of the cast.
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://royaldeaf.org.uk/what-is-bsl/
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/british-sign-language-interpreter
https://www.rcs.ac.uk/courses/ba-performance-bsl-english/
https://www.rsc.org.uk/your-visit/access/british-sign-language
https://accessbsl.com/how-to-become-a-sign-language-interpreter/
https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/Salaries/sign-language-interpreter-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 7th June 2024
Cabaret is a form of theatrical entertainment which features music, dance, song and/or drama. A Cabaret Artist is someone who creates a performance for an audience using one or several of these methods. The sky's the limit with a cabaret act. You can create a cabaret performance about absolutely anything.
Search training, experience and funding opportunities from across the theatre industry here
There are no formal qualifications required to become a successful Cabaret Artist, however any qualification or training in performing arts would benefit you and develop your skill set.
Read our blog 'How to become a freelancer in theatre' here.
A career in cabaret can begin at almost any level with or without a qualification or experience, however this would better your chances of being hired or making contacts. You can first gain work in group acts and performances and develop or create your own solo performance from that. The more performances you do and varied acts you have, the more you will gain a name for yourself and be well known within the cabaret section of the creative industry. You could also be a tribute act or create your own character for a performance/act.
Payment varies depending on location and venue. Some performances are a set fee and some are relevant depending on how many people attend the event.
See Actor Musician, Actor/Performer or Circus Performer to gain an idea on rates of pay in these areas.
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/creating-successful-cabaret-show-23021/
Photo: Shutterstock
Updated: 4th June 2024
A Musical Director leads a cast, orchestra, choir and other musical groups during a performance. They select musical arrangements and compositions to be performed and study musical scores to prepare for rehearsals. They are responsible for bringing the music of a musical theatre production to life, guiding performers and musicians to create a cohesive, expressive, and engaging musical experience for audiences.
Although no formal qualifications are needed, a deep understanding in music is. Courses in composition, orchestration and conducting would be beneficial as well as training in musicianship, voice and acting. A Musical Director must be able to sight read music, write music and they are expected to play a selection of instruments that usually include the piano.
Search opportunities to become a Musical Director from across the theatre industry here
To be a Musical Director you should have a creative flare and be able to work with a variety of different people in different departments. You should have musical proficiency and must be able to sing (well enough to teach singers), play the piano, and understand other musical instruments as well as being able to read music. Leadership skills and confidence to conduct performers is also beneficial.
Musical Directors can work both permanently and in freelance positions. To work with recording artists on touring concerts or with an opera or orchestra company, you must have years of experience as this is a senior-level management role. You can develop your craft through the use of apprenticeships, however many start with community theatre, eventually moving onto regional theatre and professional work.
Read our blog 'How to become a freelancer in theatre' here.
The average range of fee per show is £1,370 - £4,500 depending on experience. Plus, £150 - £500 per show day and rehearsal.
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://www.mgcfutures.com/musical-director/
https://www.oldvictheatre.com/discover/the-hub/insights/what-does-a-musical-director-do/
https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-become-music-director
https://officiallondontheatre.com/news/a-life-in-the-theatre-musical-director-337579/
Published: 6th June 2024
A Fight Director is responsible for planning, choreographing and overseeing staged combat (fights) in a play. They act as a consultant for the performance. Fight Directors can also be referred to as Fighting Directors, or Fight Choreographers and they are experts at making a fight look realistic while ensuring it is safe for the Actors and other participants.
To be a Fight Director you will need a formal qualification in stage combat such as BADC certifications. Having understanding in performance, directing and performing arts is also useful.
Find opportunities in stage combat from across the theatre industry here
Search through training, experience and funding opportunities to help you get into theatre here
You can be a Fight Director whilst doing other job roles at the same time. For example, a theatre Choreographer can often move into a Fight Director role as both roles require similar skills. Fight Directors are often freelance and take on different kinds of jobs in lots of different settings.
Read our blog ‘How to become a freelancer in theatre’ here.
The Independent Theatre Council notes that the minimum session rate starts at £107. Often, shows will need two to several fight sessions for rehearsals, with a ‘fight call’ needed before each performance to ensure safety is maintained.
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.rsc.org.uk/news/archive/q-a-with-fight-director-philip-d-orleans
https://www.itc-arts.org/rates-of-pay/
https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/stage-combat-basics-16768/
https://idfight.com/stage-screen-combat/
https://www.stagefight.co.uk/stage.htm
https://work.chron.com/job-description-fighting-director-26326.html
A Casting Director plays a pivotal role in selecting performers for a production. Their responsibility is crucial to the overall success of the project. Inaccurate casting choices can significantly impact the quality of the production. Therefore, the Casting Director meticulously ensures that each role is filled with the most suitable performer, considering factors such as experience, skill, and suitability for the character. Not every show will have a Casting Director, with much smaller scale shows relying on the Director and Producer to find and secure performers.
Formal qualifications are not required to become a Casting Director, but experience is necessary. Individuals who want to pursue a career as a Casting Director can complete a degree in theatre, film production, acting or business to increase their chances of employment and make contacts in the industry.
Find opportunities to help you get into theatre here
Many Casting Directors begin their careers as Casting Assistants (CSA) to become a Casting Director. Some complete apprenticeships for Casting Agents and Directors or some complete work experience at talent agencies and production companies.
Find an apprenticeship or work experience opportunities here.
A fee for a Casting Director in theatre can vary depending the demands of the production and the Casting Director's contacts in the industry. You will often be freelance and can set your own rates. As an example, in TV and film, Casting Directors can earn around £260 per day/ £1,430 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.thecdg.co.uk/becoming-a-casting-director/
https://www.mgcfutures.com/casting-director/
https://www.productionbase.co.uk/ratesofpay.aspx
Updated: 5th 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
Do you love being creative? Love designing or building sets? Love making things happen?
Fancy training for a job in film, TV or theatre? Then Open Door is here to help you get there.
Open Door is an 8-month part time and flexible intensive course designed to help young people take the next step in their career. Open Door works with people between the ages of 18-26 (Actors) and aged 17-26 (Behind the Scenes) who wish to pursue a career in theatre.
Open Door is a registered charity which has received multiple awards including being named as one of the top 100 change makers by The Big Issue (newspaper) and as ‘School of the Year’ by The Stage Awards.
Open Door know how difficult and expensive the process of applying for drama school can be. Open Door help young people by giving them the support they need to go to auditions feeling prepared, confident and without any worry of financial strain. And it’s all free!
Successful acting applicants will receive:
- RADA
- LAMDA
- Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
- Royal Central School of Speech & Drama
- The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Successful behind the scenes applicants will receive:
- RADA
- Guildhall
- Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
- LAMDA
- Royal Central School of Speech & Drama
- The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Including interview fee exemption whenever required
During their 2018/19 cycle, Open Door worked with 40 new participants and 11 returning participants from the previous year. The group of 51 achieved:
If you’re serious about a career in acting, behind the scenes or in production and you’d like to apply for Open Door, you must meet the following criteria.
Applicant criteria
If this seems like something you’d like to participate in and you meet the criteria, apply below.
Acting: Apply here
Behind the scenes: Apply here
“I honestly felt like a career in acting is hopeless where I live, but then I came to Open Door and I feel so motivated”-
Open Door participant 2018/19
“If not for Open Door I would not have been able to apply for any. It is so expensive I just wouldn’t be able to do it” -
Open Door participant 2018/19
“It made us feel like we belong in what we are going to do. We can go to these amazing places and see shows we like and we don’t like, it is inspiring and makes me think yeah I can do that”-
Open Door participant 2018/19
“Getting the free theatre tickets was amazing because it was for things I couldn’t normally afford to go to, with good seats. The quality of the work, seeing stuff you do and don’t like, it is so inspiring to be there”-
Open Door applicant 2018/19
Good Luck.
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
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
