Apprenticeships are the lifeblood of theatre. They not only preserve centuries-old crafts but also open doors to the next generation of creative talent. At the Royal Ballet and Opera, apprenticeships are more than training programmes – they are a commitment to nurturing skills, broadening opportunities, and keeping the art of live performance thriving.
2025 sees the launch of new five backstage Production Technician apprenticeships in Scenic Art, Automation & Construction, Costume Performance and Wigs Hair Makeup & Prosthetics. Royal Ballet & Opera and The Royal National Theatre are at the vanguard of rolling out these apprenticeships.
“We will always want to tell stories through theatre, through film and through TV. We can’t just be telling those stories with the same small group of people fortunate enough to afford traditional learning routes into the industry. We have to open up doors and opportunities to a whole range of careers opportunities for all young people. This is really important for Royal Ballet & Opera.”
Sarah Waterman – Apprentice and Work Experience Manager at Royal Ballet & Opera.
A Costume Technician Apprentice supports the creation, maintenance & fitting of costumes for theatre, film, and television productions.
Their training covers fabric selection, garment construction, tailoring, and alterations, enabling them to contribute to the building of costumes that meet both the creative vision and functional requirements of the production.
This occupation is found in a broad range of vibrant, creative & dynamic industries for example theatre, TV, film, fashion, commercials and print media (editorial).
These skilled specialists design, create, and apply hairpieces, makeup, and prosthetics for a variety of artistic and performance settings. These technicians play a vital role in transforming performers and bringing characters to life across diverse creative industries.
We are developing a range scenic apprenticeships standards in collaboration with National Theatre.
Supports the design and creation of painted backdrops, textures & finishes for theatre, film, and television sets.
Supports the design and creation of painted backdrops, textures & finishes for theatre, film, and television sets.
Supports the design and creation of painted backdrops, textures & finishes for theatre, film, and television sets.
Theatre has always relied on practical learning. From carpenters and costume makers to lighting and stage automation specialists, these roles were historically passed down through mentorship and shadowing. Apprenticeships continue this tradition, giving young people the chance to learn directly from experienced professionals while contributing to world-class productions.
Not every young person flourishes in a university setting. Many are more inspired by hands-on learning – and apprenticeships allow them to turn passions like engineering, metalwork, digital design, or make-up artistry into rewarding careers. They also shine a light on “hidden careers”, revealing how vital backstage roles are to the magic the audience sees on stage.
For the Royal Ballet and Opera, apprenticeships are integral to the future. Roles in flight automation, scenic construction, costume performance, and hair and make-up require specialist expertise. As technology advances – particularly in automation and computerised stage systems – apprentices bring fresh skills that complement the wisdom of seasoned craftspeople. This blend of tradition and innovation ensures theatre remains at the cutting edge.
Equally, apprenticeships transform lives. They offer pathways to talented young people from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds, giving them access to careers they may never have imagined. Since 2007, the Royal Ballet and Opera has grown its programme to 24 apprentices across creative, technical, business and marketing roles, feeding vital skills back into the wider creative economy.
When asked why Royal Ballet & Opera choose to work with Creative Alliance as their preferred specialist apprenticeship training provider, Sarah explained, “Creative Alliance really understand this is a place of work for us as employers. They get what we’re trying to do. Creative Alliance and brilliant at being so dexterous and working around that and helping the apprentices to apply what they’re learning in our unique workplace to our standards.”
Apprenticeships rely on employers, Training Providers and Assessment Organisations working collaboratively. OCN London are also investing in being the specialist Apprentice Assessment Organisation for these new apprenticeship standards. Amarjit Dhanjal at OCN had this to say:
“As Commercial Director at OCN London, I see the real difference that strong collaborations can make. This partnership with the Creative Alliance brings together our expertise in assessment with their dedication to nurturing backstage talent. By working side by side with employers and training providers, we are helping to create meaningful pathways into theatre for young people who might not otherwise have had the chance to develop these specialist skills. It’s a great example of how partnerships can sustain the craft and creativity that make live performance thrive.”
Apprentices bring energy, perspective, and ambition. They enrich organisations, inspire audiences, and secure the future of theatre. Quite simply, without apprenticeships, the curtain cannot rise.
“This apprenticeship will allow me to pursue my dream of becoming a professional scenic artist and make a huge difference to my life as a young adult, giving me the opportunity to meet and learn with talented people who share the same passion for the creatives.”
Lily Maggs – Scenic Art Apprentice
“I’m looking forward to being in the fast paced and unpredictable environment, the challenge of keeping performers looking their best under pressure excites me. This apprenticeship opens so many doors”
“For me this apprenticeship will give me real world experience and the chance to work with professionals in an incredible venue helping me grow in confidence and is a great opportunity work on my passion while also pushing me out of my comfort zone. This apprenticeship will help me develop personally, technically and professionally.”
