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.
