The Royal Opera House is to become the new home and partner of TheatreCraft, the annual event offering 17-25 year olds interested in a behind-the-scenes career in theatre an insight into what really goes on backstage.
Now in its 7th year, the event, which has previously been held at the London Coliseum, will take place on 30 November at its larger venue, allowing more young people than ever before to get involved in non-performance elements of theatre, from wig-making to playwriting.
The Royal Opera House joins an extensive list of committed partners, including Masterclass at the Theatre Royal Haymarket, Mousetrap Theatre Projects, Creative & Cultural Skills and the Society of London Theatre, which together form a partnership steering group in order to run the event.
Tony Hall, Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House, said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to welcome TheatreCraft to the Royal Opera House in November to showcase the wide variety of backstage opportunities there are for careers and training within the theatre industry.
“Talented and skilled backstage employees are critical in every theatre up and down the country and at the many festival events now taking place each year. It’s only with their expertise and hard work behind the scenes that actors, singers, dancers and musicians are able to perform great shows which we can all enjoy.”
Talking of the transition to a larger venue, Holly Whytock, TheatreCraft Project Manager, said: “TheatreCraft benefited hugely from being allowed to grow at the London Coliseum and is now ready for a larger venue. What better place than the iconic and inspirational setting of the Royal Opera House as a new home, where we hope to welcome more 17-25 year olds and inspire the next generation of theatre industry staff.”
Last year, more than 800 young people descended on the London Coliseum to attend TheatreCraft but it is hoped that this year’s event at the Royal Opera House will allow more than 1,000 participants to discover the behind-the-scenes world of theatre and the wide range of career opportunities that it offers.
For more information, visit www.theatrecraft.org