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London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) Stage Management and Technical Theatre graduate, Rebecca James, headed to the Edinburgh Fringe to put her training to the test.
In her first professional engagement as Deputy Stage Manager (DSM) on 'National Hero', she operated lights, sound and more. She explains how training enabled her to take on such a varied role - and not be afraid of the challenge.
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Were you interested in theatre at school?
"Throughout my time at school, I was a member of my local amateur dramatic society. Whilst I initially became involved with the society because I wanted to act, I gradually became more and more interested in what was happening 'backstage' - lighting, sound, stage management and so on. I discovered that the technical aspects of the theatre industry fascinated me and I was desperate to learn more."
What was the next step in pursuing your interest?
"After graduating from Oxford University with a degree in Modern History, I began working as a television researcher and production assistant. I loved being exposed to the technical side of production as part of my daily routine and grew increasingly aware that this was the direction I wished to follow. I knew that I wanted to learn solid technical skills that would be applicable to both theatre and television, and realised that my next step was to find the right course."
How did you find the right course?
"By reputation alone, I was encouraged to apply to LAMDA for a place on the two-year Dip HE in Stage Management and Technical Theatre. I knew that this course had a long-standing tradition of being one of the very best and, after meeting the Academy's Course Director, I was confident that LAMDA offered exactly the sort of vocational training I needed."
What did you learn on the course?
"The course is renowned for being extremely 'hands-on'. At the Academy, I was able to practise, demonstrate and develop my skills in an entirely professional environment - working with directors and designers from the industry. The course is also extremely broad - meaning that when I graduated I had a working knowledge of all aspects of technical theatre, from carpentry to production management. This was invaluable in my first job as DSM with National Hero, as I was able to take on additional responsibility for lighting and sound and feel sure that, although stage management is my speciality, I could still work confidently in these areas."
What qualities does someone need to pursue this type of training?
"In my experience, if you are thinking about pursuing a course in stage management and technical theatre, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are the two most important qualities you need. Having already worked backstage in a theatre or for school productions will be helpful when you set about applying to drama schools. However, tutors are just as interested in your passion and your attitude as they are in your technical skills. Inevitably the course, and indeed the industry, will not suit everyone. Yet, if you have enthusiasm, initiative and a genuine desire to learn, there is every reason to believe you can succeed."
Do you think drama school was the right choice for you?
"I have so many fond memories of my training and can say without any hesitation that drama school was the right choice for me. Yet whether you choose to train or to acquire technical skills on the job, you should never be afraid to try something that challenges you - it could lead you in directions you had never even considered."
What are your career ambitions?
"Having taken my first steps into the industry with National Hero, my greatest ambition now is to continue to work in the theatre for as long as I find it enjoyable and rewarding. At present, I am having the time of my life. Drama school has given me the knowledge and expertise to fulfil my career goals - now the possibilities are endless!"
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