Backstage Careers Take Centre Stage at TheatreWorks Event
Last Friday, Manchester’s Dancehouse Theatre was buzzing with activity as aspiring theatre technicians and production specialists gathered for the highly anticipated TheatreWorks: Backstage Careers Event. The free day-long programme, which took place on April 11th, offered attendees a unique opportunity to explore careers in technical theatre and production through workshops, panels, and networking with industry leaders.
The event, supported by Performers College, Get into Theatre, Masterclass and other prestigious organisations, featured an impressive lineup of speakers and activities designed to showcase the diverse range of backstage career opportunities available in the theatre industry.
Mark Dakin, TAIT UK Principal, delivered a powerful keynote speech highlighting the collaborative nature of theatre production. “Collaborative practice is the unspoken super-power of the performing arts,” Dakin emphasised, adding that “theatre is the origin story for all the other genres of live performance and events, because of the collaborative innovation that takes place.” He also noted the artistic value of technical roles, stating that “technicians are artists too.”
The day’s programme included a fascinating ‘sketch to stage’ presentation about Mary Poppins by Chris Boone from Cameron Mackintosh, and a behind-the-scenes look at ‘A Knight’s Tale’ with Mark Cartwright from Runaway Entertainment. Attendees also benefited from panel discussions on breaking into the industry and career pathways in technical theatre, featuring experts from organisations including ATG Entertainment, Factory Academy, and the National Theatre Skills Centre.
Adding to the day’s opportunities, representatives from Arts Council England provided valuable careers and funding advice to attendees. They highlighted the Developing Your Creative Practice (DYCP) fund, which opens for applications on Thursday 24th April 2025 at midday and closes on Thursday 22nd May at midday.
This important funding stream supports individual creative practitioners to focus on their professional development through activities such as building new networks, experimenting with collaborations, international travel, training, mentorship, and research time. With grants ranging from £2,000 to £12,000, the DYCP fund represents a significant opportunity for technical theatre professionals looking to advance their practice and explore new creative directions.
In response to the critical shortage of backstage workers across the UK theatre industry, Performers College has launched their new four-week Technical Theatre Production Essentials course in Manchester and Birmingham. We’re delighted to announce that the short course will be delivered in support of TAIT UK and ATG Entertainment.
This hands-on programme gives beginners practical experience in key areas including lighting design, sound operation, stage management, and scenic construction, culminating in work experience supporting a public production. The course, which includes a nationally recognised IOSH Health & Safety qualification, aims to address the skills gap by providing a direct pathway into technical theatre careers without requiring previous experience.
Tony Followell, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Performers College, reflected on the event’s success:
“The energy and enthusiasm we witnessed at TheatreWorks was remarkable. Seeing so many industry professionals generously sharing their knowledge with the next generation of technical talent was truly heartening. Events like this highlight both the urgent need for skilled backstage professionals and the incredible opportunities that exist in technical theatre.”
To discover more about Performers College, including auditions and how to apply, contact us at [email protected] or you can Apply Now, or book an Open Day on our Events page.
