Training the Next Generation of Backstage Professionals

Date

22nd July 2025

Author

Sarah Palmer

Theatre and live events venues across the UK are facing growing challenges with finding trained backstage professionals. That’s why we have partnered up with the Midlands Art Centre (MAC) to deliver our Skills Bootcamp in Live Events!

Over the last three weeks, we have provided foundational hands-on training for emerging talent in the skills they need to be ready for entry level backstage roles.

Hands-on Training for Backstage Skills Gap

Through the Bootcamp, learners have received practical training in essential backstage skills, including:

Basic Stage Management skills.
Using Lighting and Show Control software.
Fundamentals of Sound.
Risk assessments for Health & Safety.
Electrical standards and safety.

Beyond the theory, learners have explored how these skills are applied in real venues through venue tours and conversations with professional technicians from The Alexandra, CBSO and Symphony Hall. The staff provided not only their technical knowledge bur also offered careers guidance.

Now during their final week, learners will be using their skills towards setting up a show at the MAC showcasing how they are ready to take on junior backstage roles.

A proven pathway into real jobs

Skills Bootcamps go beyond training. We provide continuous employability support that helps learners move into paid roles, with many of them progressing their careers as apprentices, freelancers or entry level positions.

Work-based training is a proven solution to the skills gap in live events and theatre. With the training delivered by Creative Alliance and support from committed employers, apprentices quickly become valuable members of production teams. We have seen the impact that new talent can bring to employers.

Learn more about our Backstage Apprenticeships

The Role of Midlands Art Centre

We are incredibly grateful to the Midlands Art Centre. They have been instrumental to the success of the Bootcamp by opening their spaces to train aspiring talent. It’s the kind of support that the new generation of talent is looking for and can help them achieve their career aspirations.

As a board member for Creative Alliance, MAC plays a key role in shaping our training to reflect the values and needs of the industry, as well as ensuring that we keep aligned with our mission statement in every aspect of what we do.

If you want to invest in the future of your workplace find out how an apprenticeship can align with your organisation’s goals.

Explore our employers page