Any X-Factor fan knows there is no shortage of wannabe performers out there...
However, in a recent Guardian Careers podcast, Catherine Large from Creative and Cultural Skills pointed out the consequence of a surge of interest in performing on stage has meant not enough people are pursuing careers behind the curtain.
In fact, according to Catherine, the skills gap in theatre and live music is so pronounced that Creative and Cultural Skills has set up an industry-led National Skills Academy to train people in these behind-the-scene roles — as well to address an urgent need to replace jobs caused by an ageing workforce.
For those interested in a career in performing arts, it certainly seems gaining these skills will pay off — research for the sector skills council for the creative arts found that by 2017 there would be a need for 30,000 skilled backstage, offstage and technical theatre workers.
So, if you could see yourself working as a laser technician or a sound designer — or perhaps wig-making is more your thing — join our panel of experts in a live Q&A to find out more about opportunities available and the skills you'll need to get them.
The discussion is now open for advance questions.
Our panel:
Sarah Handley is Discover programme coordinator for the National Theatre. Sarah's role includes the provision of theatre-based training for people looking to work in this area, and the management of events which give the public an insight into the backstage world at the National Theatre.
Rob Young is course director for stage management & technical theatre at The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). Rob is also a director of the Conference of Drama Schools (CDS). Prior to joining LAMDA he spent 18 years as a production manager and stage manager in theatre, specialising in touring.
Robert West is education and curriculum manager for the National Skills Academy, Creative & Cultural Skills — the sector skills council for the creative and cultural industries. Robert has previously held roles at Arts Council England and the Theatre Royal Stratford East.
Richard Parr is dance performance manager at Youth Dance England. He mainly works on U.Dance and YDE Young Creatives, Youth Dance England's national programmes for performance opportunities and young choreographers.
Maggie Saxon is currently part-time executive director for Skillscene, an organisation committed to the continuing professional development of individuals working in technical theatre. Maggie is the immediate past president of the Theatrical Management Association, as well as having served on its council and various committees.
Brian Kelly is the training officer for the media and entertainment trade union BECTU. Brian has national responsibility for the development of the union's volunteer representatives and activists. He also manages externally funded projects and actively lobbies for, and supports, vocational training opportunities for the union's members in theatre and live events, film, TV and radio.
Kate Elliott is a national official for BECTU, with responsibility for education, training and equalities. For the past eight years Kate has worked with BECTU members, predominantly in theatre and live events, organising and promoting training opportunities and working with key industry organisations to enhance skills development and access to training.
Sid Higgins is executive director of the National Youth Theatre. Sid has worked on more than 100 productions for the company after joining as a member in 1981. He became a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts in 2008.
Digby Robinson is resident production manager at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley. In addition to this role, Digby works extensively in a freelance capacity, including production and managing predominantly in the West End, on regional tours and also occasionally in live events.
