Leading theatres unite to promote careers backstage

This autumn, many of England’s major theatres and live music venues will open their doors to an estimated 19,000 school children in years 9, 10 and 11 (13-16 year olds), to demonstrate the wealth of career opportunities available in offstage and backstage roles.

Creative Choices, a unique annual programme of careers events, aims to give young people a hands-on insight into the work that goes on behind the scenes, including, box office, casting, community theatre, costume, directing, event management, finance, front of house, lighting, live projection, playwriting, programming, promotion, props, set design, sound, stage management, theatre in education, theatrical make-up and venue management. 

Among the many prestigious venues taking part are the National Theatre, London, the Lowry Theatre, Salford, the Royal Opera House Production Workshop in Thurrock and the Salisbury Playhouse.

Commencing on 2nd October with the National Theatre, London, running until 23rd November with the Richmond Theatre, London, the free workshops will be hosted by some of the world’s leading live theatre professionals. In addition to technical demonstrations, the events provide information on how to get into these industries, supported by our www.creative-choices.co.uk website which offers detailed advice about the range of careers available in theatre and live music, plus up-to-date information on training, workshops, job opportunities and qualifications.

Creative Choices (formerly Offstage Choices), now in its 4th year, builds on the growing success of previous years’ events which in 2011 were attended by 2,650 children and their teachers from 125 schools in 33 different venues. A total of 5,000 students and teachers have attended events to date. 

Places are still available at some events.  Teachers can book at www.creative-choices.co.uk/events.