TheatreCraft, London’s largest free careers event for young people seeking an off-stage career in theatre, will return to the Waldorf Hilton Hotel on Friday 3rd November.
Booking is now open for London’s largest backstage careers event and attendees can register for free via the TheatreCraft website.
The annual event will hold further significance throughout the industry following an independent report commissioned by the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre, which has found that off-stage theatre, despite benefiting from a passionate, engaged workforce, is struggling with a shortage of skilled technical workers.
The report found that the education sector is channelling young people away from off-stage careers, labelling theatre as a ‘high risk option’ and offering a notable lack of guidance around training routes into the industry. The report went on to identify TheatreCraft as an important response to these issues, having actively championed the vibrant array of careers in the sector for fourteen years.
More than a careers fair, TheatreCraft remains an entirely free event offering attendees the opportunity to take part in dynamic workshops led by theatre professionals, explore the vibrant marketplace of exhibiting theatres and arts organisations, connect with peers through various networking opportunities and speak with industry experts in one-to-one advice sessions.
1,000 people aged 16 -25 attended TheatreCraft last year, taking part in more than 68 workshops delivered by skilled theatre professionals across 6 West End venues and engaging with 66 theatres and arts organisations in the marketplace, making it the largest event to date.
Newly appointed President of Society of London Theatre, Kenny Wax, commented, “Without the skilled practitioners backstage, there would be no theatre. From marketing and lighting to set design and directing, TheatreCraft does the invaluable job of highlighting the range of careers available and helps to spot and encourage fresh talent.”
“TheatreCraft is also a showcase of the talented professionals who make up our industry and we are immensely grateful they donate their time and energy to help make the event the success it is.”
Speaking about TheatreCraft returning to the Waldorf Hilton Hotel, General Manager, Guy Hilton, commented; “I am delighted that the Waldorf Hilton, which resides in the heart of Theatreland, can once again be a part of TheatreCraft.”
“TheatreCraft provides a unique opportunity to nurture the talent of young people in the world of dramatic art, which echoes very well our own commitment to create opportunities for young people in the hospitality industry.”
From directing to stage management, producing to marketing, lighting to automation, TheatreCraft is the only place to be for a fun and unique glimpse into the ‘behind the scenes’ world of theatre.
TheatreCraft is organised by a group of committed partners from across the theatre industry; the Theatre Royal Haymarket Masterclass Trust, the Royal Opera House, the Society of London Theatre and Mousetrap Theatre Projects.
For more information and all the latest news about TheatreCraft, visit the website or follow TheatreCraft on Twitter.
Take a look at a guest post by blogger Ellie Mae about her experiences at last year’s event.