The National Theatre has opened applications for its nationwide training programme, Nationwide Young Technicians.
Young people across Greater Manchester can apply to take part in the programme, which runs in partnership with HOME Manchester and comes in advance of this year’s Discover! Creative Careers Week (November 18-22), which encourages young people to consider technical skills careers in the creative arts.
Nationwide Young Technicians offers 13 to 19-year-olds across the country the chance to develop practical skills and learn about the variety of backstage and off-stage roles within typical theatres. The free programme is offered online, to reach as many people as possible, with online sessions run by leading industry professionals at the National Theatre. Participants are sent kit boxes to practice the skills they are learning over the 11-week programme, which covers lighting, staging, sound and video, and starts on February 4.
In Greater Manchester, participants will have the chance to take part in workshops at HOME Manchester to put their skills into practice.
The National Theatre is currently training eight apprentices across a variety of backstage and off-stage departments. Nine out of 10 apprentices who have completed training at the National Theatre have gone directly into employment within the sector.
Simon Stephens (not the playwright), who is head of the NT skills centre, said “The National Theatre is the largest employer in the not-for-profit theatre sector, and a skills incubator for the entire creative industry. Whether there is prior knowledge or simply a passion for theatre, we offer young people a clear route to learn new skills and explore careers in the sector."
Samuel Beagley, who is creative development practitioner for theatre at HOME, added: “This is a great opportunity for young people who are passionate about technical theatre production and want to learn more. Offering real-world experience develops their skills and builds confidence, encouraging participants to pursue careers in the arts.
"Initiatives like this are crucial in empowering the next generation of creative professionals.”
Applications close on December 9 at 10am. No prior knowledge or experience is required to apply.
More info and apply here.