Dundee Rep Theatre Careers Booklet

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Inspiring Careers@ TheRep

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>contents Introduction

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Acting

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Arts Management

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Creative Learning

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Directing

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Dramatherapy

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Visitor Services

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Lighting

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Marketing & Press

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Scenic Carpentry

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Scottish Dance Theatre

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Sound

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Stage Management

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Theatre Design

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Wardrobe Department

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Useful info: 10 things to get you started

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Tips for CV writing

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Recommended reading

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Useful links

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Glossary

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INSPIRING Careers @ The Rep booklet Welcome to the third edition of Dundee Rep’s

In this booklet you will find all the information you need about the range of jobs that exist in a working theatre such as Dundee Rep, and lots of tips about what you should think about studying at school, and which courses you might want to investigate at college, university or drama school. Best of all, there are interviews with people from every department of the Rep, which illustrate perfectly all the different routes that we’ve taken to come and work here! And because we can’t fit everything you need to know in one booklet, there’s also a list of useful contacts – so that you know where to go next...

At Dundee Rep we see the whole theatre as a learning resource. Our Inspiring Careers Booklet is part of a much wider Education, Skills and Training programme which aims to offer people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to access professional theatre-making practice, develop skills, participate in training events, create theatre and support young people to make positive and informed career choices.

So, whether it be sound and lights, set or costume design, marketing or artistic administration, acting, directing, customer service, creative learning, community engagement or a career in dance that you may be interested in learning about, we are here to help you. At Dundee Rep we are dedicated to inspiring people to get engaged with all aspects of the performing arts – and realise their true potential.

For more information or to learn about any of our other activities for young people please contact 01382 342660 or email info@dundeereptheatre.co.uk Philip Howard Chief Executive I joint Artistic Director

Produced with support from Creative & Cultural Skills and Creative Choices, as part of 'Creative Production & Technical Skills' a partnership project with the Federation of Scottish Theatre

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Careers @ TheRep > Acting Ensemble What is Acting?

The Actor’s job is to bring characters in plays and scripts to life, through speech and movement. Their role is to convey the ideas of playwrights, directors and scriptwriters to the audience.

What do they do? > Read and analyse a script > Research and build a character > Learn lines and stage directions > Take direction from the director and technical team > Perform to an audience At Dundee Rep Theatre: Dundee Rep Theatre have an ensemble, a permanent company of actors, who adapt to different roles and productions. Dundee Rep is the only theatre in Scotland which has a permanent company. Most actors are employed on a show by show basis.

Skills and knowledge needed: > Listening > Team work > Communication > Drama /Acting > Concentration > A broad knowledge of theatre and scripts Actors also need to have a good understanding and awareness of people’s emotions, attitudes and relationships to build a realistic character.

Subjects to consider studying at school: Drama, English, Dance Some Further/ Higher Education courses to consider: > NQ Theatre Arts > HNC/D Acting & Performance > Performing Arts Diploma > BA Contemporary Theatre > MA Theatre Studies Further sources of information: > > >

www.dramauk.co.uk Equity www.equity.org.uk Youth Theatre Arts Scotland www.ytas.org.uk

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Caroline Deyga >Title: Actor What does your job involve?

I start by analysing the script, breaking it down into small chunks and creating a character based on what I learn from the text. In the rehearsal room I work with the director to develop my character and, along with the other actors, get all the characters up on their feet and make sure all of their journeys fit together to create the whole story of the play. I also have to learn lines, attend costume fittings and work with stage crew to get all of the technical elements of the performance in place. Then finally it’s onto performing the show every night for 3 weeks while, sometimes, rehearsing the next show of the season during the day.

What is the best thing about your job?

Getting to live so many different lives. As an actor you get to play a whole range of characters and explore so many different situations that you might not get the chance to experience in your own life otherwise.

It is unlike any other job in the world!

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What is the worst thing about your job?

The uncertainty of where or when your next job is going to be. It’s the worst thing because you can have long periods of time between acting jobs when you need to find a different job that keeps money coming in but is also flexible enough that you can still go to auditions. However, it can also be the most exciting thing because you are working in different places each time. The good thing about Dundee Rep is that the actors in the ensemble are employed full time so they always know when their next show will be. They also do co-productions with other theatres and companies so the actors get to work in different theatres too.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I had my first professional job when I left college which was a schools tour and I then worked as a freelance drama teacher for 2 years. After getting my acting degree at University I got a place on the Dundee Rep graduate scheme which is where I am now. While I’ve been here I have performed in a Scottish premiere, a Greek tragedy, a Christmas show, a murder mystery and a world premiere.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

For a long time I wanted to be a primary school teacher because I really enjoyed working with children. I had been performing as a hobby and loving it for a long time but it wasn’t until I was in fourth year that I really started to think about doing it as a career. However, because I teach drama sometimes too I have been lucky enough to get the best of both worlds.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

I have standard grades, highers and advanced highers from school. I would have loved to have done drama but my school didn’t offer it as a subject so instead I joined as many local amateur theatre and musical groups as possible to get more experience. I also have an NQ in Theatre Arts and an HNC/D in Acting and Performance. After college, I went to university where I did a 2 year top-up course and got my BA (Hons) in Acting for Stage and Screen.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

There are lots of skills needed to be a good actor like being able to work well as part of a team, take direction and deal with rejection because there are a lot of actors and not many jobs. It’s a good idea to keep an open mind about other things you can do related to the arts as lots of actors write, direct or teach in between or alongside acting jobs so that they are still involved in something they love. All that being said, if you are passionate about performing and are ready for all the hard work, then be prepared for a lot of good fun too.

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Careers @ TheRep > Arts Management What is Arts Management?

All arts organisations need administrative support to manage their business activity. Managers play an important role in helping companies to achieve their goals, through managing resources (such as people, money, materials) and work activities.

What do they do? > Accountancy (deal with finance for the company) > Fundraising (raise money to fund projects and performances) > Manage customer care issues > Manage people > Act as a key contact for the theatre as a building resource > Support the management board and production team in scheduling and resourcing productions > Produce management reports At Dundee Rep Theatre: There is a General Manager at Dundee Rep Theatre who has overall responsibility for the smooth running of operational services and liaises with the various theatre departments about these.

Skills and knowledge needed: > Management skills > Communication skills > Budget and funding knowledge > Organisational skills > Business knowledge > Knowledge of the arts > IT skills > Team work skills > Problem-solving skills > Able to work on own initiative Subjects to consider studying at school: English, Business Management, Maths, IT Some Further/ Higher Education courses to consider: > HNC/D Management > BA Arts Management > BA Arts Industry Management > BA Arts Management & Performing Arts Further sources of information: > > > > >

International Network for Arts and Business http://artsmanagement.net/ Independent Theatre Council www.itc-arts.org Federation of Scottish Theatres www.scottishtheatres.com Arts and Business www.artsandbusiness.org.uk UK Theatre www.uktheatre.org

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Ian Alexander >Title: General Manager What does your job involve?

As General Manager of Dundee Rep I work with the Artistic Director/Chief Executive and jointly we are responsible for the development of the theatre, representation to funders and to the public, and for the wellbeing of the theatre’s employees. My direct responsibilities are to manage and oversee the day to day operation of administration, finance, staff, production, restaurant/bar (our trading company), building and resources.

What is the best thing about your job?

What is the worst thing about your job?

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The best thing about my job is that I get involved in all aspects of the theatre, assisting managers and staff to deliver our services, programme and projects. This makes my job very demanding but it is never repetitive and every day I am confronted with a new challenge.

The worst thing about my job is that I never have time to fully appreciate the work that we do because as soon as one project is near completion I am working on the next.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I started working in theatre as soon as I left school at 17 and apart from a five year break during which time I worked for myself in property refurbishment and interior design, I have worked in theatre management for 22 years.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

It was never my intention to work in theatre. I started part time in my local theatre assisting front of house and in the bars, after 3 months a permanent position as Assistant Front of House Manager became available, I applied and got the job.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

I have no formal qualifications. All my training has been “on the job” and I have learnt through my own personal and work experiences and from working with very talented people.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

The advice I have for anyone wanting to work in the arts is to be prepared to work hard – sometimes doing jobs that you don’t want to do and at unsociable hours. Believe in yourself and always maintain a flexible approach and attitude in your work.

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Careers @ TheRep > Creative Learning What is Creative Learning?

The Creative Learning team work with schools, colleges, community centres, universities, young people, children, adults and anyone who is interested in exploring their creativity through drama and theatre.

In other theatres this department is sometimes called Community Department, Outreach Department or Education Department.

What do they do?

Create, develop and deliver innovative events, workshops, projects, performances and training for a variety of client groups, to develop confidence and creativity.

At Dundee Rep Theatre: Creative Learning at Dundee Rep Theatre includes the following roles: >

Head of Creative Learning – oversees and leads the development of the Creative Learning Department, manages the team and advocates for our work in the Senior Management Team

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Education, Skills and Training Facilitator – designs and facilitates creative projects with diverse groups of children, young people and teachers within the formal education sector

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Community and Wellbeing Facilitator – develops and facilitates creative activities both within and outwith the theatre. Works specifically using drama as a way to improve wellbeing with diverse groups of people

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Creative Learning Facilitator – develops and delivers projects across the department.

Works specifically in Youth Theatre

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2 Dramatherapists – Adult Service and Children and Young People’s service. They work with people of all ages who have mental health needs, using creative activities to express emotions and develop new skills

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Administrator – takes care of administrative, financial, marketing and office management duties

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Freelance workers – are brought in to run one off sessions or do a specific job

Skills and knowledge needed: > A broad knowledge of theatre and scripts > An understanding of the curriculum > Team work and communication > Drama and directing > Organisation > Leading/facilitating (the ability to understand the needs and abilities of a group is essential in order to deliver the best activity.)

Subjects to consider studying at school: Drama, English, Religious Studies or any subject that looks at different cultures.

Some Further/ Higher Education courses to consider: > HNC/D Acting & Performance > BA (Hons) Community Drama > BA (Hons) Applied Theatre > BA (Hons) Contemporary Theatre Practice > BA (Hons) Performing Arts > Creative Apprenticeships – Community Arts Further sources of information: > > >

Youth Theatre Arts Scotland www.ytas.org.uk International Association of Theatre for Young People www.assitej.org National Association of Youth Theatre www.nayt.org.uk

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Lisa Williamson >Title: Creative Learning Facilitator What does your job involve?

My job involves a lot of things from planning and facilitating a variety of youth theatre groups and directing their productions to running drama projects in schools. I’m also involved in projects that use drama to explore different topics in primary as well as project managing a devising project with secondary schools.

In creative learning we are basically advocates for how important the arts can be for young people and adults both educationally and personally!

What is the best thing about your job?

What is the worst thing about your job?

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Seeing a youngster really come into their own, to meet a young person who might be shy, have low confidence or who maybe has challenging behaviour when you first meet them but as they take part in the project or youth theatre group they really start to blossom. There’s nothing more satisfying that that, when you really see the difference being involved in drama and the creative arts can have on a person. That goes for a whole group as well. Often if a class take part in a project that ends with a performance or sharing the confidence they gain and the pride they feel for themselves and the rest of their group is brilliant. To be a small part of that is the best thing about this job!

Hmmm… well, facilitating and meeting new people is my favourite part of this job so when I don’t get to do that – if there is office/desk stuff to be done – it’s not so great. However, it’s all necessary so I wouldn’t say there is anything I really dislike about my job. I’m very lucky that way.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I’ve technically worked in the arts since I was 16 when I got my first job as a youth theatre assistant here at the Rep! So that makes it nearly 9 years. Eek! I also worked as a drama facilitator for another Dundee based charity before going to Manchester Met University to study Contemporary Theatre and performance.

After that I worked in a box office in Manchester while making studio performances with a group of fellow graduates as well as doing some freelance admin and front of house work for some Manchester based theatre companies and festivals. I was then lucky enough to get an internship in the drama development department of The Point in Eastleigh before getting this job at The Rep and moving back to Dundee. Phew!

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

Yes always! When I was younger I wanted to be an actor (as most young people involved in drama do) but after a few years of trying different things I decided creative learning was where I wanted to be.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

Yes I have an HNC in Acting and Performance and a degree in Contemporary Theatre and Performance.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

Get as much experience as you can! Volunteer if you can and just go to as many different arts-based activities as possible. By trying different things you might discover an interest you didn’t realise you had before. By involving yourself in the arts scene where you live you can meet so many people you can learn from and who may be able to offer you opportunities in the future. My colleague in creative learning was my first drama leader when I was 9 at my local community centre and she was the first person to invite me to join youth theatre at the Rep! So you never know how important someone you meet might be to you in the future – put yourself out there.

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Careers @ TheRep > Directing What is Directing?

The Theatre Director is responsible for all aspects of a theatrical production, from selecting a play and creating an artistic vision for the play, from rehearsals through to performance.

What do they do? > Select a script and analyse the content > Research the context of the script > Audition and cast actors > Employ the Creative Team which might include: Designers, Composers, Choreographers, Lighting Designers etc > Work with design professionals and the Creative Team on the overall feel and look of a production > Manage rehearsals and direct actors under the artistic vision > Ensure they see lots of theatre to keep up to date with the cultural scene At Dundee Rep Theatre: There is a Chief Executive/joint Artistic Director and an Artistic Director (joint). They are responsible for the overall artistic and organisational strategy for the theatre and directing theatre productions.

Skills and knowledge needed: > A broad knowledge of theatre and scripts > Directing > Leadership > Communication and organisation skills > Drama > Creativity > Technical understanding Directors have to be confident individuals with the ability to inspire their team and the audience.

Subjects to consider studying at school: Drama, English Some Further/ Higher Education courses to consider: > HNC/D Acting & Performance > BA (Hons) Directing > MA (Hons) Theatre Studies > BA (Hons) English and Drama Further sources of information: > > >

Equity www.equity.org.uk Drama UK www.dramauk.co.uk Director’s Guild of Great Britain www.dggb.org

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Jemima Levick >Title: Artistic Director (joint) What does your job involve?

I work alongside Philip Howard to deliver the artistic vision for the organisation. Together we select the plays we want to produce, and also put together the creative teams that those plays have attached to them – the designers, musicians, actors and so on. I also programme the incoming companies that tour to the Rep, so I suppose the whole programme of work we present is channelled through me, one way or another.

I also work with the other members of the senior management team to deliver the strategy and direction for the organisation as a whole.

What is the best thing about your job?

What is the worst thing about your job?

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Creating shows with the actors and the other artists that come to the Rep. I am passionate about storytelling, and watching those stories come together in front of an audience is the most rewarding experience. I also secretly love Excel spreadsheets – so the programming and scheduling is very satisfying!

There isn’t a worst really. All of it amounts to the whole, so all of it is good in some way or other.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I have been working in the theatre since I graduated from university in 2002. I spent about 3 years working as an Assistant Director to all sorts of directors in a variety of different companies, all of whom contributed to my work ethic and directing style in some way. I have also worked as a project manager and producer for various different theatre companies, and I have run my own company producing work for young people.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

Yes! Do you have any training or qualifications?

I have a degree in Drama and Theatre Arts and I trained for a year with the Royal Lyceum Theatre (Edinburgh) and Stellar Quines Theatre Company with funding from a Scottish Arts Council (now Creative Scotland) bursary.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

Be prepared to work really hard and keep an open mind; have a go at everything rather than sticking to just one discipline – and then you’ll know if you’ve picked the right one or if something else is better! There’s always more to learn, and do it because you love it, not for the money!

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Careers @ TheRep > Dramatherapy What is Dramatherapy?

Dramatherapists work with people who are experiencing mental health problems, using creative activities to express emotions and develop new skills.

What do they do? > Plan and deliver appropriate creative activities for: • One on one therapy sessions • Group therapy sessions > Liaise with hospitals and other agencies who refer clients to them At Dundee Rep Theatre: At Dundee Rep Theatre there are two Dramatherapists. One Dramatherapist delivers and manages the Adult Service and another Dramatherapist delivers and manages the Children and Young People’s Service. Dundee Rep Theatre is the only theatre in the UK to have a resident Dramatherapist, usually they are based in clinical settings such as hospitals.

Skills and knowledge needed: > Facilitating/leading > Communication > Listening > Planning Subjects to consider studying at school: Drama, English, Art, Music Some Further/ Higher Education courses to consider: There are only post-graduate courses in MA Dramatherapy, so you would need to complete a degree first: > BSc (Hons) Psychology > BA Drama Studies and Education Studies > BA Community Arts > BA (Hons) Applied Theatre Further sources of information: > >

The British Association of Dramatherapists www.badth.org.uk The Sesame Institute www.sesame-institute.org

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Rose Sadowski > Title: Dramatherapist What does your job involve?

Dramatherapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses different creative and dramatic techniques to facilitate creativity, learning, insight and growth. Dramatherapy has as its main focus the intentional use of the healing aspects of drama and theatre as the therapeutic process.

My job involves a number of different strands – I meet clients on an individual and group basis and offer dramatherapy to these clients experiencing mental ill health in the community. During sessions we may use music, movement, role play, art and other creative techniques to enable a client to explore personal material.

As well as working with clients I also oversee the management of the Adult Dramatherapy service, maintaining records, conducting referrals and assessment processes, and liaise with referrers to oversee the safety and wellbeing of clients. I also offer taster sessions to potential clients and referrers within the Dundee community.

What is the best thing about your job?

Being witness to clients’ personal journeys in therapy and facilitating them to find and journey along their paths towards their recovery.

Careers

Learning about what it is to be human and in a relationship with another.

Experiencing first hand the healing potential drama and the arts can offer.

What is the worst thing about your job?

There are not enough hours in the day to do everything!

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I have always been interested in the arts and theatre since I was a child. I trained in drama and theatre arts for my undergraduate degree and became interested in community theatre as a result. I worked with various community theatre projects on a voluntary basis and also worked as a drama facilitator for children and young adults in the community. My experience in community theatre led me to question how drama can be therapeutic and healing for participants, and this question led me to my training as a dramatherapist.

During my training I offered dramatherapy here at the Rep, in a primary school and also offered dramatherapy within a local prison.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

Yes, ever since I was about 4 years old and went to watch ‘Peter Pan’ at the theatre. From then on I was hooked! Little did I know back then that my passion and interest in drama would lead me to my vocation as a dramatherapist…!

Do you have any training or qualifications?

I completed my BA HONS undergraduate degree in Drama and Theatre Arts and specialised in community theatre. I went on to train as a dramatherapist for 3 years at Roehampton University in London and received my HPC Registration and professional title at the end of this Masters degree. I am also a full member of the British Association of Dramatherapists.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

Get involved with voluntary organisations to really find the nub of where your interest lies. Listen to your body and emotions to guide you and trust in yourself and your abilities. If you are interested in training to become a Dramatherapist or would like to find out more, visit the website for the British Association for Dramatherapists at http://badth.org.uk/ I would be happy to speak to anyone who is interested further on my office number: 01382 203 002.

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Careers @ TheRep > Visitor Services What is Visitor Services ?

The Visitor Services staff deal directly with the audience and ensure they have an enjoyable experience at the theatre.

What do they do? > Box Office deals with enquiries about productions and events, book and sell tickets and are responsible for cash handling >

Front of House greet the audience, guide them to their seats, sell programmes and help with enquiries

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Front of House staff liaises with marketing to sell and promote productions

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Front of House staff are responsible for safe evacuation of the auditorium

At Dundee Rep Theatre: The Operations team at Dundee Rep Theatre includes: >

Visitor Services Manager – manages the services team and is responsible for the safety and security of the public while they are on the premises

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Events Officers – usher the audience to their seats and sell refreshments and programmes

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Box Office Manager – manages the Box Office team and is responsible for maintaining records

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Senior Box Office Assistant – supports Box Office Manager

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Box Office Assistants – deal with customer enquiries and sell tickets

Skills and knowledge needed: > Customer service > Communication > Team work > Time keeping > Health and Safety/First Aid Often on the job training is given for: > Sales Software > IT > Cash handling & Budget management Subjects to consider studying at school: IT, Maths, Drama, Business Management Some Further/ Higher Education courses to consider: > NQ Administration & Information Technology > HNC/D/Degree Management > BA (Hons) Arts Management > Events Management / Hospitality Further sources of information: > > >

Theatrical Management Association www.tmauk.org The Independent Theatre Council www.itc-arts.org Arts Marketing Association http://www.a-m-a.org.uk

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Carol Watson >Title: Visitor Services Manager What does your job involve?

I look after the Visitor Services team within the theatre which includes staff in all Front of House and Box Office areas. Our job is to deliver the very best possible service to members of the general public, whether they are asking for information, buying tickets, drinks or a meal or attending a performance in the auditorium. We also have to ensure the safety, comfort and security of everyone attending the theatre and would be responsible in the first instance for evacuating the building, delivering first aid and ensuring the cleanliness of public areas.

What is the best thing about your job?

What is the worst thing about your job?

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The best job satisfaction I can have is at the end of the night when a challenged or happy and contented audience leaves the theatre in good spirits. Positive feedback regarding the performance or the high standards of food and beverage service and the helpfulness of the ushers and box office staff is what gives me the greatest buzz! This is really enhanced by the fact that many of our audience come regularly and we get to know them on a personal level.

When things don’t quite go according to plan – and all that wonderful feedback isn’t so forthcoming!

It doesn’t happen often and hopefully we learn from individual and collective mistakes. The more constructive the criticism the more appreciative we are! Mind you it’s not all a bed of roses – my other least favourite occurrences are when the box office computer crashes or I am faced with a blocked toilet!

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

My first foray into the Arts was in the dark ages, selling ice cream and programmes at the London Coliseum, Britain’s largest lyric theatre and home to English National Opera. Since then, other than almost a decade as a Fundraiser for ENO, I have worked, since the nineties, solely in house management – at the Coliseum and latterly, before relocating to Dundee in 2007, at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

It was my first visit to the Coliseum that really made me think of changing career. Initially, it was, in fact, the beauty and atmosphere of the building that I fell in love with and later on I really appreciated being involved with a true ensemble company with its full time orchestra, chorus and principal singers. Luckily the aforementioned ushering job came up which resulted in my spending the rest of my working life exclusively in theatres.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

My college qualification was in Hotel Management – other than that, most training has been undertaken ‘on the job’ and has focussed on customer services Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

Bit of a Robert the Bruce thing – “if at first you don’t succeed, try, try and try again”. I know many people who originally had their hearts set on a performing arts career, which for one reason or another didn’t come to fruition. Rather than give up, many have progressed into Technical or Administrative areas of the Arts – and are still “living the dream”! Don’t be scared by long, unsocial hours or physical and mental hard work – you’ll always be rewarded by the knowledge that you helped make magic for an audience. It’s true – even sometimes against all the odds – “the show must go on!”

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Careers @ TheRep > Lighting Design What is a Lighting Designer?

The Lighting Designer is responsible for designing the lighting for a production.

What do they do?

Lights affect the appearance and mood of a show and the Lighting Designer will work very closely with the Director and Designer to create the overall look and mood. They will: >

Design a lighting plan noting position of all the lights on stage and at which angle they will shine in order to enhance the set and actors

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Working with the lighting electricians they will rig, focus and plot the lights setting the colour, intensity and fade times

At Dundee Rep Theatre: We do not employ a full time Lighting Designer here at the Rep but instead we hire designers on a show by show basis. They will be responsible for designing the lighting for a particular show.

Dundee Rep Theatre employs: >

1 Chief Electrician

>

1 Deputy Chief Electrician

Together they are responsible for bringing the Lighting Designer’s plan to life – they will rig and focus the lights and operate the lighting during the production.

Skills and knowledge needed: > Creativity > Technical knowledge > Electrical knowledge – power output > Basic level of Maths Lighting Designers need to work to tight budgets and schedules so need to be good at planning.

Subjects to consider studying at school: Art and Design, Maths, Physics Some Further/ Higher Education courses to consider: > BA (Hons) Theatre Practice: Theatre Lighting Design > Sc Sound Light and Live Event Technology > Creative Apprenticeship in Rigging, Light and Sound > FdA (foundation Degree 2yrs) Lighting Design & Practice Further sources of information: > > >

Bectu www.bectu.org.uk The Association of British Theatre Technicians www.abtt.org.uk The Association of Lighting Designers www.ald.org.uk

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Ian Dow >Title: Chief Electrician What does your job involve?

The day to day maintenance of all onstage electrical equipment, making sure it’s all safe and clean and ready to use. I liaise with incoming companies and lighting designers to ensure production setups run smoothly and safely and the shows look as good as possible.

I also occasionally light shows here, which involves working with the director and set designer to create a lighting design for the show.

What is the best thing about your job?

It’s not just a desk job, I’m up ladders, crawling under sets, working with new, cutting edge equipment and trying to bring old bits of equipment back to life… all in an afternoon. Also every show presents different challenges and problems to solve. You meet lots of different, interesting and often very talented people.

What is the worst thing about your job?

Careers

Long hours and it’s not best paid job in the world.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I’ve worked professionally in theatre for about 14 years, I started out working for a lighting hire company in Manchester, then went on to work as assistant electrician at Pitlochry Festival Theatre and then here at Dundee Rep Theatre.

I became freelance after that, my jobs included technical manager for 7:84 theatre company, Suspect Culture and a few others. We produced and toured shows around Scotland and the UK. I was also a production manager for Vox Motus Theatre Company as well as a few children’s theatre companies, whilst also re-lighting shows for Fabulous Beats Dance Company. I then became Technical Manager at a venue in Glasgow called Platform before returning to Dundee Rep in 2012.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

No, I left school at 16 and worked in hotels and restaurants and was training to be a chef at the local college.

After deciding this wasn’t for me, I then went back to school to get some Highers and got accepted to Napier University to do Engineering where I worked on some student productions and decided theatre was the life for me and retrained for the 3rd and final time…

Do you have any training or qualifications?

HNC in Technical Theatre from Coatbridge College and a degree in Technical Theatre from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (now The Royal Conservatoire).

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

In the early stages of your career you (may) have to be prepared to be flexible to get work, I’ve painted sets, driven trucks, put up circus tents and worked on all sorts of live events (conferences, music festivals, weddings and more). It’s all helped with gaining experience, making contacts and shows potential employers a willingness to get stuck in.

It’s a fun job that can be really rewarding. There are long hours and you have to be prepared to work hard when it’s really busy leading up to opening, and then keeping concentration when you maybe only have to do one thing in a long show…

As with most jobs if you are keen, punctual, hard working and have a bit of common sense you’ll get on fine…

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Careers @ TheRep > Marketing & Press What is Marketing and Press?

The role of the marketing team is to promote the work of the theatre to the public such as productions, events and education projects. They attract audiences and find ways of promoting a play or event through the media such as local and national newspapers.

What do they do? > Research a production or event > Identify and understand the target audience for a play or event > Liaise with the play’s Director, Designer, Cast and other theatre staff > Communicate with the press e.g. newspapers and television > Press releases to promote productions and events > Create brochures, leaflets and posters > Create content for online including videos and blogs At Dundee Rep Theatre: The Marketing Department at Dundee Rep Theatre consists of: >

Head of Communications – manages department and marketing strategy

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Marketing Manager – implements the marketing strategy and leads the team

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Press Officer – liaises with the local and national press to promote activities

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Campaigns Officer: RCL & Digital – oversees marketing for Rep Creative Learning and all digital activity

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Campaigns Officer for Visiting Companies – looks after marketing campaigns for visiting companies

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Graphic Designer – creates print design for all shows and projects

Skills and knowledge needed: > Organisational skills >

Communication

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Creativity

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Team work

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IT Skills

Subjects to consider studying at school: Business Studies, English, Drama, Art, IT, Media Studies Some Further/ Higher Education courses to consider: > NQ Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations >

HNC/D Marketing

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BA (Hons) Arts Marketing or Arts Management

Further sources of information: >

Arts Marketing Association http://www.a-m-a.org.uk

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UK Theatre: http://www.uktheatre.org/

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Kerr Nairn >Title: Campaigns Officer for RCL & Digital What does your job involve?

My job involves working with the rest of the marketing team to promote what’s happening in the theatre. My role is focussed on digital marketing; I maintain our website and social media platforms and create our digital content such as video blogs and production trailers.

My role also involves promoting and documenting the work that goes on in the Creative Learning department.

What is the best thing about your job?

What is the worst thing about your job?

Careers

The best thing about my job is being part of Dundee Rep. It’s a fantastic place to work, with lovely creative people and there’s always something interesting happening somewhere in the building.

I enjoy filming and editing our promotional videos, which are often a lot of work but ultimately, very rewarding and sitting in on rehearsals is fun and always feels like a privilege!

Chasing actors and creatives for their biographies and headshots for programmes can be a thankless task but we always get there in the end and there’s always something more fun to do just around the corner.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I’ve worked in the arts for about 4 years. I started working in the theatre bar while I was at university and also did some ushering. I did some work in Box Office and then when I finished university, I worked part time in the marketing office before being offered a permanent position – which I grabbed with both hands!

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

No, I originally started out studying architecture! But when I started working in the bar whilst at university, I quickly realised that the Rep was an incredibly welcoming and creative place and it instantly appealed to me.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

Nothing relating to theatre or marketing. I think qualifications are always important but in this industry, especially arts marketing, experience is essential too. There are some fantastic courses out there for people wanting to study for a career in the arts.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

I would say experience is important. Join a youth theatre group, volunteer, get a job as an usher and see as much theatre as you feasibly can! Theatres (especially the Rep) provide great work experience programmes which should give you a great idea of what area suits you. It’s worth remembering that there is a lot more to theatre than just acting.

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Careers @ TheRep > Scenic Carpentry What is Scenic Carpentry?

The Scenic Carpenters are responsible for realising the creative vision of the set designer.

What does a Scenic Carpenter do? > Using a variety of construction techniques the Carpenter will translate the scale model of the scenic design into a full size stage set >

This could involve woodwork, metal work or welding as well as other specialised construction techniques using a variety of different materials

At Dundee Rep Theatre: The Rep’s Scenic Carpentry team consists of: >

1 Master Carpenter – oversees the workshop and builds the scenery

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1 Workshop Assistant – assists with the building of scenery – skills include welding as well as woodwork

We also employ freelance Workshop Assistants as needed depending on the scale of the show.

Skills and knowledge needed: > Good construction skills >

A knowledge of technical drawings

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Maths – needed to translate the scale model to size

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Communication

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Ability to work to tight deadlines whilst also being flexible to change

Subjects to consider studying at school: Craft Design and Technology, Maths, Graphic Design Some Further/Higher Education courses to study: > SVQ Construction, Carpentry and Joinery >

BA (Hons) Scenic Arts (Painting and Construction)

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Autocad for Construction

Further sources of information: >

British Woodworking Federation www.bwf.org.uk

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The Association of British Theatre Technicians www.abtt.org.uk

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Neville Fenwick >Title: Master Carpenter What does your job involve?

I am responsible for building the scenery/stage sets for Dundee Rep Theatre and for Scottish Dance Theatre and Creative Learning whenever they need anything.

What is the best thing about your job?

The best thing about my job is the variety, the difference from one design to the next and the decisions about how we build it and what we build it with – choosing whether we do it in timber and plywood, or timber and canvas, or steel is always a bit of a challenge.

What is the worst thing about your job?

Careers

The worst thing about the job can be the repetition. Quite often you are doing exactly the same thing over and over again. So if we are doing a mortice and tenon canvas set we might do 100 or 200 mortice and tenon joints which can be a bit boring.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I’ve worked in theatre for over 40 years. I have mainly been a carpenter, but I have also worked as a Production Manager, an electrician/lighting designer, and a Stage Manager. I’ve even worked in Wardrobe. I have never been an actor, no desire to be an actor at all!!

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

I never wanted to work in the theatre! I came into it by accident when I was 17 and was too lazy to get out!

Do you have any training or qualifications?

No. I have no training or qualifications for the theatre. I went to RADA to do their stage carpentry course many years ago but it was agreed after 2 terms there was nothing really they could teach me at that time so I left the course and became an employee instead!

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

If you want to work in the arts you need to have a vocation for it because it is not a job you will ever make money at so you need to make sure you are going to enjoy the work. It is also an excellent opportunity to work in different places. I have worked in 15 different cities over the years.

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Careers @ TheRep > Scottish Dance Theatre What is Scottish Dance Theatre?

Scottish Dance Theatre (SDT) is Scotland’s national contemporary dance company and is part of Dundee Rep. SDT tours both nationally and internationally and also has a thriving Creative Learning team who engage people in dance through workshops and classes both at home in Dundee and on tour.

What does the company do? > Performs dance productions at Dundee Rep and on tour > Offers training for teachers and dance leaders > Offers opportunities to learn more about dance and workshops to schools, colleges, universities and community groups > Runs a programme of dance classes at Dundee Rep Theatre.

At Dundee Rep Theatre: Scottish Dance Theatre at Dundee Rep Theatre includes: > > > > > >

Artistic Director – is responsible for creating and implementing an artistic vision for the dance company General Manager – is responsible for the financial and business aspects Marketing Manager – is responsible for implementing the marketing plan Administrator – takes care of administrative and office management duties Education Manager – plans and delivers dance training, projects, workshops and classes on tour and at Dundee Rep Theatre Dancers – help create new dance works with the choreographer, perform in dance productions and teach workshops on tour and at Dundee Rep Theatre.

Skills and knowledge needed: > High level of dance experience > Team work > Communication > Organisational skills Dancers in the company must be extremely fit, self disciplined and committed as the job is very physically demanding.

Subjects to consider studying at school: PE, Drama, English, Dance Some Further/Higher Education courses to study: > NC Dance > BA (Hons) Dance > HND Dance Artists > BA (Hons) Community Arts (includes community dance) Further sources of information: > > >

Scottish Dance Theatre www.scottishdancetheatre.com Council for Dance Education and Training www.cdet.org.uk Dance UK www.danceuk.org

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Naomi Murray > Title: Rehearsal Director/Dancer with Scottish Dance Theatre What does your job involve?

As a dancer my job involves being part of the creative process with a guest choreographer and then subsequently taking the new and existing repertoire on tour and performing it, both nationally and internationally. SDT also has a very successful outreach programme, which means I get to teach workshops to students of all ages throughout the year. As a rehearsal Director my role is to oversee the day to day running of the company whilst we are in the studio and on tour, as well as re-staging past repertoire with new dancers and rehearsing current pieces for accuracy of musicality, intention and spacing. I make sure the dancers are both fit and healthy, well trained and ready for their work load throughout the year.

What is the best thing about your job?

What is the worst thing about your job?

Careers

I never have the chance to get bored as our yearly timetable works in ever changing stages, alternating between creation periods and touring periods. The people I work with are like my family which makes my job a pleasure but the absolute best thing is being able to dance all day. Not many people can say they love their job, I am pleased to say that I can!

The worst thing would have to be when I have been so physical during my working day that my body aches. So much so that I am mentally and physically drained. There is little room for a social life when all you want to do is sleep, rest, re-hydrate and recover.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I have worked with SDT for seven years in total. Upon completing my degree in London, I graduated straight into the company. After several exciting and eye opening years I took a two year break from the company to pursue other interests in the freelance dance scene and to recover from an on-going injury. In September I re-joined SDT as both dancer and rehearsal director.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

I was always drawn to the theatre. I remember my very first audition for a Christmas pantomime, ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. I was 12 and didn’t think I would even get through the first cut! I still remember the lights on stage and the audience – it was another world I was entering and was totally hooked. The physical mastery of the dance techniques during my training over the next decade was difficult as it took both dedication and commitment. But achieving my dream, to dance in a professional dance company was the reward. I am not even 30 yet and I can say with pride that I have achieved one of my dreams.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

I have a BA(HONS) Degree in Dance and Theatre History-contemporary dance. Currently I am studying my postgraduate diploma as well as my Instructor training qualifications for STOTT Pilates.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

I have often thought that dancing is a vocation, it is a calling where there is little pay and a lot of hard work. You will need an adventurous spirit as us dancers are often on the road and a hearty disposition – self confidence is the key. Believe in yourself and everyone else will too.

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Careers @ TheRep > Sound Design What is Sound Design/a Composer?

Sound Design is the creation of the sound for a production using pre-recorded effects, writing new music, using live instruments or computer technology.

What do they do? > The Sound Designer works closely with the Director to create a sound scape that will enhance the mood of the production > Work with a Composer to create new music for the production > The Composer works with musicians to play any compositions or they may create the music themselves using instruments or a computer > The Sound Designer/Composer may want to use a mixture of live or pre-recorded sound > Working with the theatre’s technicians they will need to amplify the sound using microphones and mixing desks to establish the right volume and direction of the sound > Sometimes the Composer and Sound Designer are the same person At Dundee Rep Theatre: > We do not employ a full time Sound Designer or Composer at Dundee Rep Theatre but hire them on a show by show basis as and when needed > The Designer and Composer will then work with our Head of Sound who will help facilitate the creation of the sound from carrying out recordings to rigging the sound system and operating the production on the night Skills and knowledge needed: > Creativity > An understanding of theatre > Understanding of the principle and physics of sound > Knowledge of computer technology > An understanding of different instruments and the sounds they can produce > Problem solving > A musical ear Subjects to consider studying at school: Music, Information Technology, Physics, Maths, Drama Some Further/Higher Education courses to study: > NQ Sound Engineering > Foundation Dip in Popular Music & Sound Technology > Creative Apprenticeship in Rigging, Light and Sound > BA (Hons) Creative Sound Technology Further sources of information: > > >

Bectu www.bectu.org.uk Musicians Union www.musiciansunion.org.uk Professional Lighting and Sound Association www.plasa.org

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Colin Lowson >Title: Head of Sound What does your job involve?

I work with the Director and Sound Designer or Composer to help create their vision for the productions. I supply equipment and support for any groups that use the stage and for rehearsal purposes. I also facilitate any recording required for the production.

What is the best thing about your job?

The variety of different styles of materials you get to work on and the diversity of people you work with. The buzz of being part of live entertainment.

Careers

What is the worst thing about your job?

The unsocial hours can make fitting life around work quite a challenge.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

10 years. 4 years as General Technician at Dundee College venue ‘The Space’ working on dance, theatre arts, visiting performances and corporate events and 6 years as Head of Sound at Dundee Rep Theatre.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

No, when I left school I started to train as an IT support engineer. My career in theatre developed from my hobby of helping various amateur companies in the local area.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

I left school with Higher and Advanced Higher grades. I started in theatre straight from my IT post and learned the majority of necessary skills on the job. In addition I have been on a number of training courses on specific access equipment and control software.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

Be determined. No job is too small or badly paid to begin with, all the experience you gain will help you throughout your career and the “word of mouth” advertising is invaluable.

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Careers @ TheRep > Stage Management What is Stage Management?

Stage Managers are the link between the rehearsal room and the creative departments. They are communicators, passing information from the director and actors to the production team.

What do they do? > Co-ordinate and manage both the rehearsal process and the performance > Run the rehearsal room creating “the book” (the final copy of the script which will be used to run the show) noting down all the moves the actors make > During the technical week they note down the cues for lighting, sound, flying and scenic changes and during the performances they use these cues to run and control the production > Work with the designer to source and create all the props At Dundee Rep Theatre: The Stage Management team at Dundee Rep Theatre consists of > 1 Company Stage Manager – overall supervisor of team, managing projects, budgets and welfare of acting company > 1 Deputy Stage Manager – mainly responsible for being on “the book” for rehearsals and production > 2 Assistant Stage Managers – primarily responsible for propping the show and running the backstage area Skills and knowledge needed: > Clear communication skills > Time keeping and organisational skills. > Patience and diplomacy > Creativity Subjects to consider studying at school: Drama, English, Art and Design Some Further/Higher Education courses to study: > NC in Theatre Technology > HND in Production and Technical Stage Management > BA (Hons) Stage Management > BA (Hons) Theatre and Performance Design > Diploma in Professional Stage Management Further sources of information: > > >

Stage Management Association www.stagemanagementassociation.co.uk Equity www.equity.org.uk UK Theatre: http://www.uktheatre.org/

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Lesley Neilson > Title: Deputy Stage Manager What does your job involve? > >

What is the best thing about your job?

Careers

> > > > > > >

Running the rehearsal room daily Responsible for making up the prompt copy, prompting, and distributing rehearsal notes and call sheets daily Keeping a record of the cast’s hours Compiling and distributing setting and running plots Advising the Stage Manager of any Health and Safety issues within rehearsals Putting cues in the prompt copy following the director’s and relevant designers’ instructions Cueing the show during the technical rehearsal, dress rehearsals and the run Writing up show reports Assisting the Stage Manager and Assistant Stage Manager(s) with the safe returns of props and furniture

The best part of my job is the adrenalin rush of cueing a live performance in front of a large audience plus you have a lot of fun throughout the whole process What is the worst thing about your job?

The worst part is working very long hours at times.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I graduated 4 years ago but worked as Assistant Stage Manager at Pitlochry Festival Theatre while I was still a student. When I first graduated I did another short course in Prosthetic make up FX and then worked as a freelance Stage Manager for a year before coming to work at Dundee Rep. Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

No. I didn’t know what I wanted to do while I was at school but had always enjoyed going to the theatre and had creative hobbies such as art, dancing, crafts etc. I found a course at the RSAMD, Glasgow that incorporated many of my interests (Scenic Art, prop making etc) so I decided to try it and see what happened and where it took me.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

I have a BA in Technical and Production Arts.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

Be willing and be prepared to work very long hours. Also, even if you do a Higher Education course, know that you will learn the most when you’re out working in the industry – be open to new things and never assume that you know it all! Contact a theatre and ask if you can do a work placement to experience it.

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Careers @ TheRep > Theatre Design What is Theatre Design?

Theatre Design is the design and creation of a set and costumes for a production or event Designers are responsible for the visual aspect of a production What do they do? > A Designer will work closely with the director to bring the drama to life by creating a convincing environment for the actors to work in > Design a set for the piece creating a scale model of their design > Design the costumes for the characters At Dundee Rep Theatre: > The Rep does not employ a full time designer but instead will bring in a freelance designer on a show by show basis > The Rep does employ a full time Scenic Artist/Design Assistant who works very closely with the Designer to bring his or her ideas to life > The Scenic Artist will help to decide textures, colours and materials to use for the set. > In addition they will design and often make props for the production, working closely with the Stage Management team Skills and knowledge needed: > Creativity with a good imagination > An eye for detail > An understanding of colour, paint effects and construction materials > People skills > An understanding of Maths as models are created to scale Subjects to consider studying at school: Art and Design, Craft Design and Technology, Maths Some Further/Higher Education courses to study: > HNC technical theatre > Diploma Art and Design > BA (Hons) Theatre and Performance Design Further sources of information: > >

Society of British Theatre Designers www.theatredesign.org.uk Bectu www.bectu.org.uk

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Leila Kalbassi >Title: Scenic Artist and Assistant Designer What does your job involve?

I make and paint all the scenery that you see on stage which includes doing 3D work and sculpture, ordering all the materials, calculating the dimensions and deciding on what products we use and all the paint and texture finishes.

What is the best thing about your job?

I get to do lots of different things pretty much every day such as use different techniques and making a mess! So I enjoy myself.

Careers

What is the worst thing about your job?

Quite long hours and there is a lot of thinking, a lot of maths and budgeting which is not quite so much fun.

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I’ve been working in theatre for 17 years. In that time I have had a similar job to this one as a Resident Design Assistant /Carpenter and I have worked freelance as a Designer primarily designing opera and Theatre in Education pieces.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

No, but when I realised you could do it as a career, when I was about 16 and looking through the UCAS and Art College Course guides, then I thought I’d like to work in theatre. Before then I didn’t even know this sort of job existed.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

A foundation qualification in audio visual design, A-levels, a degree in film design, a postgraduate diploma in stage design and a CAD qualification.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

Just to be hands on and do as much as you can artistically, because you’ll find a lot of different projects and topics all relate to theatre.

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Careers @ TheRep > Wardrobe Department What is the Wardrobe Department?

The Wardrobe Department will create the costumes that the actors wear for a production and maintain them during the running of the show.

What do they do? > Work closely with the designer to create the costumes that have been designed > They need to know how many people are in the cast, when the play is set and how many costume changes there will be > They will make, adapt or source all the costumes and accessories for the cast using a variety of materials, textures and finishes At Dundee Rep Theatre: The Wardrobe Department at Dundee Rep Theatre consists of: > 1 Head of Wardrobe – supervises the team and co-ordinates the work of the department > 1 Cutter – will create and cut out the paper patterns and fabric for the costumes > 2 Wardrobe Assistants – help to make all the costumes > 1 Maintenance Assistant – maintains all the costumes once the show is up and running, washing, ironing and repairing all costumes Skills and knowledge needed: > Good communication > Creativity > Sewing skills > An understanding of fabrics and design techniques > An eye for colour and detail > Good budgetary skills > Good research skills Subjects to consider studying at school: Art and Design, Craft Design and Technology, Drama Some Further/Higher Education courses to study: > HND Theatre Costume Interpretation > BA (Hons) Theatre and Production Design > HNC/D Textiles > 2 yr diploma in Costume for Theatre, Television and Film > Creative Apprenticeship in Costume and Wardrobe Further sources of information: > > > >

Bectu www.bectu.org.uk British Fashion Council www.britishfashioncouncil.com Society of British Theatre Designers www.theatredesign.org.uk Costume Society of Great Britain www.costumesociety.org.uk

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Careers @ TheRep > Name: Enza Dormizzi >Title: Head of Wardrobe What does your job involve?

My job involves sourcing costumes for the shows after having read the script and meeting with the designer to talk through their designs and vision for the look of the show, I have to find fabrics and trims and accessories for the costumes, I organise the workload and manage the budget and organise outworkers if needed.

What is the best thing about your job?

Seeing the designs come together from nothing to the finished article, I enjoy the rehearsal period as a lot of costume ideas can come from that as well.

The constraints of time and money and working under pressure.

Careers

What is the worst thing about your job?

How long have you worked in the theatre/arts and what have you done up until now?

I have worked in theatre for 38 years, I have worked at the RSC Stratford, Glyndebourne Festival Theatre, 11 years in the West End and various Rep Theatres.

Have you always wanted to work in the theatre?

No, when I left school it was the first job I applied for and I have been lucky to have worked in theatre ever since and still find it as exciting as when I first started.

Do you have any training or qualifications?

I do not have any training or qualifications just lots of on the job training and experience, I have always found sewing comes naturally to me, maybe because both my parents are tailors.

Do you have any advice for young people wanting to work in the arts?

Dedication and flexibility as you can be moving around quite a lot working for different companies, and you have to go where the work is.

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10 THINGS TO GET YOU STARTED!

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Work Experience Get yourself some work experience at your local theatre. Try and work in as many departments as you can to get an experience of them all and find out which area you really want to work in. After you’ve been once keep going back and getting more and more experience.

Join a Youth Theatre Many theatres now have youth theatre groups which you can join. Each group will be different but keep trying them until you find one you like. There may even be opportunities to try out backstage work with young technical and design team opportunities.

Come to our Careers Days These are held every year and give you a chance to speak to professionals.

Take advantage of opportunities at school or college Take every opportunity that your school or college offer. Work on school plays either in an acting role or backstage. Try selling tickets for the school show or making costumes. Show an interest in the sound or lighting. The more experience you get the better for your future. You don’t have to be studying drama to get involved.

See as many shows as you can Try to see as much theatre as you can to get a broad range of knowledge. Many theatres offer reduced price tickets for preview nights and first nights. Under 26s often get a cheap ticket deal – ask at your local theatre. Ring the Rep Box Office on 01382 223530.

Subscribe to The Stage The Stage newspaper is the No. 1 theatre newspaper with all the news and information on theatre plus jobs, auditions and opportunities. Subscribe for £36 for 6 months and the paper will be delivered direct to your door. Or pop along to your local library. You can also view The Stage online at www.thestage.co.uk Creative Scotland Website Keep up to date with arts activities by looking at the Creative Scotland website. This will contain information about up and coming events, job and training opportunities and information sheets about careers www.creativescotland.co.uk or visit the Creative & Cultural Skills website www.ccskills.org.uk/careers Sign up to Artsjobs and Scot-Nits Although you may not yet be looking for a job these sites will give you up to date information on available jobs, their location and how much you can expect to earn. Sign up at www.artsjobs.org.uk or http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SCOT-NITS/ Look at Dundee Rep Website Check out the Dundee Rep Website www.dundeereptheatre.co.uk. This will have information regarding forthcoming productions, work experience, upcoming opportunities and much more.

Talk to as many people as possible Ask for advice. Find out how people got into theatre, the path they took to their careers. Keep finding out more and more information as this will help you if you choose to apply to work in theatre.

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TIPS FOR CV WRITING

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Keep your CV short – it should be no longer than 2 sides of A4.

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Keep your CV clear and concise. Do not try to over complicate it with a fancy font and lots of colours.

Your CV needs to be functional.

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Remember to include your name, address and contact details at the top of your CV.

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If you are applying for an acting job you will need to include a headshot photo of yourself. However, if you are applying for any other job this is not necessary.

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Your date of birth and marital status are no longer regarded as necessary on your CV so do not include this information.

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Do include information on your education, where you studied and what grades you achieved. However keep it to the point and precise.

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List your employment in order of most recent first.

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Don’t just include your job title, place of work and length of service – do include a couple of bullet points on what your duties were or what you learnt/achieved. It is good to list whether the job was full time, part time or voluntary.

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Include a brief personal statement about your plans, hopes and career direction.

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Include a list of interests, hobbies and additional skills or qualifications.

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Don’t over exaggerate your experiences – theatre is a small world and you could get found out.

Do sell your actual achievements but don’t lie.

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If you haven’t yet decided which area of theatre you want to work in it can be a good idea to write 2 CVs – one for acting and one for technical theatre for example – this way you can highlight any experiences you have which are appropriate for that CV and divide up your experiences.

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You won’t get into university and drama school on grades alone so make sure you have some work experience to put on your CV.

The Covering Letter Many employers will ask you to send a covering letter in support of your application. The purpose of the letter is to introduce yourself and express a sense of your personality. You can highlight your suitability for the job with the skills and experiences you have to offer. Show you understand what the job involves and that way you can say why you are suited to the position. A covering letter also demonstrates that you can write in sentences and spell so make sure you check the letter carefully before sending. A good covering letter will convince the employer to read your CV whilst a bad letter can put them off – remember the employer may have another 100 applicants.

Further Information Creative and Cultural Skills www.ccskills.org.uk/careers Federation of Scottish Theatre www.scottishtheatre.org Scottish Drama Training Network www.sdtn.org National Association of Youth Theatre www.nayt.org.uk Youth Theatre Arts Scotland www.ytas.org.uk Connexions www.connexions-direct.com The Stage (How to Guides) www.thestage.co.uk The Site (Work and Study) www.thesite.org INSPIRING CAREERS @ THE REP

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>>> RECOMMENDED READING ACTING The Year of the King by Anthony Sher Make Acting Work by Chrys Salt To the Actor: On the Technique of Acting by Micheal Checkov So you want to be an Actor? by Timothy West and Prunella Scales COSTUME DESIGN Historic Costumes and How to Make Them by Mary Fernald and Eileen Shenton Designing Stage Costumes: A Practical Guide by Gary Thorne Costume and Fashion: A Concise History by James Laver and Amy de la Have The Costume Designer’s Handbook: A Complete Guide for Amateur and Professional Costume Designers by Rosemary Ingham and Elizabeth Covey CREATIVE LEARNING Theatre for Community, Conflict and Dialogue Michael Rohd House of Games Chris Johnston The Young Vic Book Ruth Little Games for Actors and Non-actors Augusto Boal DIRECTING Peter Brook: A Biography by Michael Kustow The Empty Space by Peter Brook Thinking Like a Director by Michael Bloom GENERAL THEATRE The ABC of Theatre Jargon by Francis Reid The Production Notebooks (volumes 1 and 2) by Mark Bly British Performing Arts Year Book Certain Fragments: Contemporary Performance and Forced Entertainment by Tim Etchells LIGHTING Stage Lighting Handbook by Francis Reid Performance Lighting Design: How to light for the Stage, Concerts and Live Events by Nick Moran Basics – A Beginners Guide to Stage Lighting by Peter Coleman Stage Lighting Design: A Practical Guide by Neil Fraser

INSPIRING CAREERS @ THE REP

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>>> RECOMMENDED READING MANAGEMENT/ADMINISTRATION Stage Management and Theatre Administration by Pauline Menear and Terry Hawkins Essential Theatre by Crispin Raymond (published by Arts Council England, currently out of print) MARKETING The Marketing Manual by Heather Maitland This Way Up: A flat-pack guide to marketing the arts by Caroline Griffin Arts Marketing Insights: The Dynamics of Building and Maintaining Performing Arts Audiences

by Joanne Scheff Bernstein Creative Arts Marketing by Elizabeth Hill, Terry O’Sullivan and Catherine O’Sullivan SOUND Theatre Sound by John A Leonard Sound and Music for the Theatre: The Art and Technique of Design by Deena Kay and James Lebrecht STAGE MANAGEMENT Stage Management: The Essential Handbook by Alan Ayckbourn Stage Management and Theatre Administration by Pauline Menear and Terry Hawkins Backstage Handbook: An Illustrated Almanac of Technical Information by Paul Carter THEATRE DESIGN Ralph Koltai: Designer for the Stage by Ralph Koltai That’s the Way I See It by David Hockney Drafting Scenery for Theatre, Film and Television by Rich Rose Drafting for the Theatre by Dennis Dorn and Mark Shander

INSPIRING CAREERS @ THE REP

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>>> USEFUL LINKS - ADVICE AND FURTHER INFORMATION Training & Qualifications Scottish Drama Training Network www.sdtn.org Scotland’s Colleges www.collegesscotland.ac.uk Scottish Credit Qualifications Network www.scqf.org.uk Drama UK www.dramauk.co.uk UCAS www.ucas.ac.uk UK Course Finder www.ukcoursefinder.com

Funding Education Maintenance allowance – Scotland www.emascotland.com Learndirect Scotland – Funding www.learndirectscotland.com/Help/Funding SAAS www.saas.gov.uk

Creative Careers Creative and Cultural Skills www.ccskills.o.rg.uk/careers A brilliant website for those who are interested in a creative career. There is careers and funding advice alongside top tips about getting into theatre.

Creative Scotland www.creativescotland.co.uk Up to date information, news and advice about the arts in Scotland. There is a section for young people aged 16-24 with advice on how to get into the arts and develop artistic ideas and projects.

Voluntary Arts Scotland www.voluntaryarts.org.uk This website provides useful information on voluntary and paid opportunities in the arts sector and training, workshops and events happening in Scotland.

Your Creative Future www.yourcreativefuture.org Gives direct information on what it is like to work in the creative industries e.g. how much work is there?

My World of Work www.myworldofwork.co.uk My World of Work is Scotland’s careers information and advice web service. Explore work, skills and learning opportunities.

INSPIRING CAREERS @ THE REP

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>>> GLOSSARY OF THEATRE TERMS > ASM Assistant Stage Manager

> AV Audio visual – meaning light and sound (projections, cameras monitors etc.) > Black Box A type of theatre usually a large square room with black walls and floor > Blocking The way in which a show is directed in terms of the movement of the actors on the stage > Break a leg A theatre way of wishing someone well before a performance, because saying “good luck” is considered unlucky by some > Calling/cueing The points at which the Deputy Stage Manager tells the tech team when to go with the changes of light/sound/scenery etc (as in calling the show) > Casual (or ‘cazzie’) Another word for temporary or freelance. Usually used to mean someone who comes in once in a while to help – especially stage or tech crew > CSM Company Stage Manager > De-rig The opposite of rigging – taking the lights etc down from their stage positions > Down Stage The part of the stage closer to the audience – the opposite of up stage > Dress The final run through of a show before it opens to the public. It takes place in full costume and usually happens the day before opening night > DSM Deputy Stage Manager > Elevation A working drawing usually drawn accurately and to scale showing the side view of the set or lighting arrangement > Entrance Point on a set through which the actor may appear, or point in the script at which an actor appears on stage > Exit The process of leaving the stage, or the point in the script at which an actor leaves the stage > Fit-up The process after the get in (see below) during which the stage is prepared/set, the sound and lights are rigged etc > Flying The moving of lights, scenery and set etc by use of ropes and pulleys > Followspot A light that is used to focus on only one performer and follow them wherever they move on stage > Front of House The areas of the theatre where the public are allowed e.g. bar, foyers (not including the auditorium) INSPIRING CAREERS @ THE REP

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>>> GLOSSARY OF THEATRE TERMS > Front of House The areas of the theatre where the public are allowed e.g. bar, foyers (not including the auditorium)

> Get-in The allocated time for the technical installation, particularly of set, lights and special effects > Get-out The time allocated to “striking” (removing) the set, lights etc at the end of a run > Gobo A metal cut out cover which is put over a light to create a pattern, word, image etc > Going dark A term used to mean the closure of a theatre, usually over the summer, OR a term used when all the lights on stage are turned off and the stage goes dark. “Going Dark” on stage means you will soon be in a black out > Green Room The room backstage where the cast and crew take their breaks > Ground Plan A to scale drawing of where all of the set and furniture will be on stage > Headshot This is a photo of the head and face of an actor which is sent with their CV to Directors and casting agents > HND Higher National Diploma – a qualification > House A term used to mean the whole theatre building – or sometimes just the auditorium “The House is now open” means the auditorium is open and people can take their seats > Interval The break in the middle of a performance when the audience can leave their seats. This usually lasts 20 minutes > Lamp A theatre light > LX Electrics – lighting, effects etc > MD Musical Director > Model Box A to scale 3D version of the set that the Designer makes to show the set builders and scenic artists what the set should look like > Off Stage Any position on the stage floor out of sight of the audience (usually in the wings) > Orchestra pit The sunken area in front of the stage where the orchestra play during a performance > Out A flying term for “up” (also “in” means down). This prevents confusion with upstage and down stage.

“Can you fly out that piece of scenery?” means the scenery will fly up > PAT testing Portable Appliance Testing – a key element of health and safety rules ensuring that all electrical items are tested annually and safe to use INSPIRING CAREERS @ THE REP

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>>> GLOSSARY OF THEATRE TERMS > Producing house A theatre in which a resident company presents works on their own stage

> Prompt corner The side of the stage at which the Deputy Stage Manager sits to “cue” the show > Proscenium Arch An arch over the front of the stage through which the audience view the play > Prosthetics Make up or other effects to create the impression of a different physical appearance e.g. a larger nose, missing limb > Pyrotechnician Someone who specialises in pyrotechnics (fireworks etc) > Receiving House A venue that does not create its own shows but accepts those on tour created by others > Rigging Hanging lights and sound equipment usually from fixed beams above the stage > Run A “run” at rehearsal stage refers to a run through of the performance helping the director to see how the performance works as a whole, and to get an early indication of duration. The “run” refers to the “lifetime” of the production, or the number of performances it will give from first to last night > SM Stage Manager > Stage Door The theatre “back door” through which staff enter. This is traditionally where you would go to get the autograph of the “star” > Stage Right The area to the actor’s right (but to the left for the audience) > Stage Left The opposite of stage right – the area to the actor’s left > Stalls The ground floor seating in an auditorium > Tech The run through before the dress rehearsal of all the technical elements, cues, changes etc – technical rehearsal > TIE Theatre-In-Education – theatre shows for schools – usually plays that are specifically written for that setting and age group > Understudy An actor who takes on the leading role if the actor falls ill or has to pull out. They usually have another part in the play – as part of the chorus or a minor role > Up stage The opposite of down stage – meaning further away from the audience > White Card A white card version of the Model Box (see Model Box) shown to the director as a first idea of what the set will look like > Wings Areas at the side of the stage, out of view, used by the actors, Stage Management etc INSPIRING CAREERS @ THE REP

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For more info: Call: 01382 342660 Email: info@dundeereptheatre.co.uk Web: www.dundeerep.co.uk