Theatre Management - work experience?
Thu, 20 Dec 2007, 08:45 pmbritkit7 posts in thread
Theatre Management - work experience?
Thu, 20 Dec 2007, 08:45 pmHi,
I apologise if I'm asking for info which is available on the site - I have looked at the forums and the other sections but haven't really found what I need.
I'm writing to ask for some advice about the possiblity of obtaining work experience in theatre / arts management in Australia. After 8 years in a (British) government job I've finally decided to pursue my passion for theatre (which up to now I have sustained through acting, directing and backstage work with community theatre groups). First, though, I would like to take a much needed break so am planning to come to Australia on a working holiday visa.
I'm fully planning to audition for amateur shows in Australia so need no advice about that (plenty of opportunities posted on here). However I'm very interested in going into theatre management as this would combine my existing experience with my love of the theatre (and although I love performing, I have found that I get huge satisfaction from being involved in theatrical productions in any capacity). I'd like to apply for a masters in arts management in a year or so, but it would be great if I could also use my time in Australia to gain experience in the field.
I wouldn't necessarily be looking for paid work - I have savings enough to get me by for a while and would be happy to work a second job to get an income. And even a very short placement to get a feel for how things work would be great. Are theatres in Australia likely to be positively inclined if I just write cold asking for a work experience placement? Any other suggestions as to how I can make my time in Australia work in my favour?
Any advice hugely appreciated!
Kit
First, yes, this has
Thu, 20 Dec 2007, 09:40 pmFirst, yes, this has somewhat been answered before...
We can't help you much without knowing whereabouts in Australia you will be coming to. Each state and city has its own unique theatre scene, and so it wouldn't be helpful to you to give you more than the basics, without knowing where you will be.
Secondly, as someone who is (I'm guessing) above the age of 18, you won't find work experience in theatre venues for management roles. They are offered to under 18s generally, or those attending university as part of their course.
There are several courses you could attend - here again it would help to know what city - but mainly, if you have experience working professionally in theatre, you shouldn't have much trouble picking up crew work. Unfortunately, more management positions (anything that is above casual crew) requires more research and schmoozing. (You don't say what kind of management; are we talking SMing, or something more admin?)
If you haven't worked in a professional role in theatre in an admin/management role before, it's unlikely you would receive any paid work in those roles, until you've done more here.
See these threads for additional advice:
http://www.theatre.asn.au/tech_talk/student_coming_to_australia_for_three_months
http://www.theatre.asn.au/green_room_gossip/moving_to_australia_from_the_usa
And please update your post with your proposed location so we can better advise you.
EDIT: I realised that I didn't state the obvious, which is to start by doing some theatre management roles with amateur groups.
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