Stagehand jobs

THE WORK AND ALL THAT IS INVOLVED IN IT

Stagehands are employed "behind the scenes" in film and television studios, on location, in theatres and concert halls, and other performance venues. They are responsible for working with set pieces, props, and special effects. Even though they aren't in the limelight, the backstage staff plays a very important role in ensuring that a show goes off without a hitch and exactly as planned.

They carry out their duties at the theater according to the stage management team's instructions. Stagehands working on major motion pictures have their own head of department, as well as supervisors, chargehands, and standby crew.

Stagehands are responsible for a wide array of tasks, which may include the following:

Performing loading and unloading operations using the set pieces and equipment.

Assisting carpenters in the construction and assembly of scenery.

When preparing for a show, the stage is being set up.

During scene changes, the scenery, furniture, and equipment are all moved about.

ensuring the protection of film and television sets when they are being moved around the studio or to other sites.

Transferring props and scenery during stage performances, which often take place in the dark.

Providing assistance to the sound department with the arrangement of the pit, stands, and other areas if an orchestra is present.

Developing unique coatings or patinas for sets or objects that have been aged.

materials for backing and hanging that are necessary for computer-generated graphics.

Alternating between opening and shutting the stage curtains.

Activities involving the use of mechanical equipment that moves scenery.

Taking down and cleaning up the set or stage, as well as the space backstage.

Stagehands are required to be present during rehearsals in order to get acquainted with the many scene changes and things that will be required throughout the performance. It is of the utmost importance that all furniture and props be positioned in the appropriate locations at all times. Performers and lighting technicians, who are responsible for lighting particular regions of the stage or set, depend on this. Performers also rely on this. Small strips of tape are often used to mark the locations of sites.

During the course of a theatrical performance, the stage crew may keep in touch with one another via the use of headsets, walkie-talkies, or microphones.

Stagehands need to be able to work whenever there are performances, which most of the time takes place in the evening. This requires them to be flexible. The majority of work gets done during the daylight hours during rehearsal sessions. They work before, during, and after evening and matinee performances after the show has begun. When a theater closes its doors, stagehands are often among the last individuals to depart. The making of movies and television shows often requires working long hours. This may take place on site in the United Kingdom or in another country.

There are moments when the working conditions are very hot, dark, and dusty. The task requires mounting ladders and working on high walkways above the stage, as well as moving large things around and lifting them.

The operation of mechanized scenery-moving equipment might entail a significant amount of strenuous physical labor. This may include manipulating mechanical devices such as twisting a winch handle, moving a heavy lever, or moving a heavy lever to fly scenery from above the stage. More and more processes are being totally automated thanks to advancements in computer technology, particularly in bigger venues.

Stagehands are responsible for driving and towing vehicles safely inside the boundaries of a busy film or television studio or on location while working in the film and television industries. In addition to this, they make use of specialized moving and lifting equipment for set pieces.

The starting salary for stagehands is typically approximately £14,000 per year.

HOW TO BEGIN THIS OPTION FOR A PROFESSIONAL CAREER

The theater industry in London and other major cities in the United Kingdom, such as Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, and Manchester, is home to the majority of available stagehand jobs. There are theaters and music halls in a great number of different towns, as well as in some remote locations. There are additional chances available with firms and artists who go on tours, as well as positions that are just temporary and may be found at arts festivals and concerts held in various areas.

Many theaters begin by hiring a stage manager, deputy stage manager, and assistant stage manager as their core team members, and then they recruit other team members as they see fit. Freelance stage crew is often employed by touring groups and bigger theaters.

Freelance labor is typical for stagehands in the film and television industries. They could have a break between jobs because they worked on a production that took place in another country or the United Kingdom for a number of weeks or months before moving on to the next one. In order to learn about upcoming productions, it is essential to engage in networking activities and develop a strong contact base inside the business. It is common practice to fill positions by word of mouth.

Jobs are often publicized in publications like The Stage and on employment websites that focus specifically on stage work, such www.stagejobspro.com. You might also try getting in touch with the theaters themselves.

EDUCATIONAL AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

To become a stagehand does not need any specific credentials on your part. The most essential qualification for entrance is a genuine interest in either the stage, the camera, or the small screen. A great number of individuals get their start in the entertainment industry by participating in amateur shows or by working as casual backstage workers in local theaters.

People who are interested in pursuing a career as a stagehand in film or television, or in the backstage or technical side of theatrical work, may find it beneficial to possess the following qualifications:

stagehands in the film and television industries are required to have NVQ Levels 2 and 3.

Certificate and Diploma in Performing Arts at the BTEC Level 1 Introductory Level.

The BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in producing arts or performing arts is the qualification you need.

The Production Arts BTEC Level 3 National Diploma qualification.

The technical theater component of a BTEC Level 3 National Diploma.

BTEC Higher National Certificate and Diploma in Performing Arts Levels 4 and 5.

There is a possibility that the Diploma in Creative and Media Studies may be helpful in this line of employment.

At the Ealing Institute of Media's Skillset Screen Academy, students may participate in further education programs that have been approved by the film industry and learn 35mm film craft skills such as set construction and lighting/effects.

There are also foundation degrees, degree courses, and certificates available in stage management and technical theater at a variety of universities. These may be earned in the field. Applicants should check with each individual school to determine the unique admittance criteria.

Candidates need to demonstrate that they are physically capable of meeting the requirements of the position. Experience in the theater or behind the camera is required of all candidates; ideally, this will have been gained working with a community theater group or on a film with a limited production budget.

Colleges and universities could make it easier for applicants who already have the necessary expertise and abilities if they do so.

A HANDFUL MORE TESTS MAY BE REQUIRED OF YOU.

In most cases, training takes place on the job. The technical stage manager or another staff member with extensive expertise will provide new stagehands with teaching and advice when they first begin working in the theatre. When working in cinema or television, the stagehand will take direction from the stagehand who is overseeing them.

The Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT) offers a variety of short courses that cover all elements of technical theater work. These may lead to prizes ranging from bronze to silver to gold.

Stagehands are responsible for being educated and informed on all occupational health and safety concerns relevant to the entertainment business. In addition, the Stage Management Association offers a variety of other classes.

SKILLS AND PERSONAL QUALITIES NEEDED

A stagehand is expected to:

Have the ability to collaborate well with others.

To be able to handle and carry scenery, furniture, and props, you need have a good level of physical fitness.

A good head for heights is essential.

Maintain a positive attitude and be helpful at all times, but particularly while working under duress.

Have the ability to pay attention to the specifics.

Be aware of the necessary health and safety precautions.

YOUR LONG TERM PROSPECTS

Stagehands that have a lot of expertise and experience may advance their careers in the theatre to become stage technicians or technical stage managers, and in the film and television industries, they can become supervisory stagehands or heads of departments.

Stagehands who are currently working for touring groups or in smaller venues may be able to get employment in theaters in London and other cities by demonstrating their expertise and passion for their profession.

People who desire to train for a different profession, such as a lighting technician, might benefit from the knowledge and experience earned while working as a stagehand.