Theatre Management - work experience? — Theatre Australia Forums

Hi, 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

Thanks for the advice. The reason I didn't specify where in Australia is because I am entirely flexible - I'll go wherever the best opportunity shows itself. I imagine though that Sydney or Melbourne would be most likely, simply because of size. I was more trying to get a feel for how theatres and theatre companies might respond to approaches from people like me. From your reply, I'm guessing that the best I can do is keep getting experience with amateur companies and hope that this will be sufficient to get me onto a management course. As I said, I've just left a government job so I haven't worked profesionally in the theatre - it's all been amateur level. Having said that, I also don't mind about pay - it's experience I am looking for, not money, and if it's unpaid then that's fine by me. I think my background lends itself best to venue / tour management rather than SM. I've checked out the degrees in arts management offered by Melbourne and UTS, and will probably apply next year. In the meantime, I guess I'll be showing up at amateur groups some time soon... Cheers Kit

Theatre Management - work experience?

Thanks for the advice. The

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