Case studies: Theatre stage manager: Eric

Eric started work at his local theatre as a volunteer and was eventually offered a job as an assistant stage manager. He now works as a theatre stage manager.

I have always loved amateur theatre. As a result, I started working at my local theatre as a volunteer. I impressed the managers during my time there and was eventually offered a professional job as an assistant stage manager. Since that first job, I have spent a number of years moving up from assistant stage manager to deputy stage manager, first in regional theatre then again with a large commercial company (Royal Shakespeare). For me, it’s the best job in the world.

One of the really positive things about my role is that it changes every day - offering lots of variety. I also enjoy feeling like I am being paid for doing my hobby - even if it is has stressful moments. One of the less pleasurable parts of the job is that, when working in a repertoire system, there is a constant turnover of colleagues due to nature of the business.

The advice I would give to graduates who want to enter this industry is that now nearly all stage management professionals come through a two or three-year training course at a drama school. In order to attend a good drama school, two A-levels are needed for entry. On qualifying, don’t be put off by the competition for work. Start at the bottom, go on tours, get your hands dirty and work your way up. You will definitely have to start as an assistant stage manager or even just a member of the crew, as the industry is based on networking and reputation. Be flexible in what type of jobs you apply for, as a lot of jobs employ stage managers on a freelance or by production basis. It can also be helpful to get involved in local theatre. Community theatre is different from national theatre, so you may find it easier to go in as an assistant stage manager.