How did you get into your line of work?
I often say by accident ... I loved the theatre whilst at school and particularly had an interest in lighting but to be honest, had not chosen it as a specific career to begin with. I ended up back in the theatre after university as a way of earning some money and realised I actually loved doing it and didn’t really want any other work.
What qualifications are required?
None specific really when I started. I worked as a casual at local theatres and showman in the West End. I returned to this type of work whilst at university to earn extra money. My degree is in Physics but has never actually been asked for at any job. I have also studied Electrical Engineering and have done many other recognised and accredited courses since deciding to stay in the entertainment industry.
What kind of person would this suit?
There are so many areas of work that fall into the technical area of our industry.
I spent thirty years prior to joining White Light as a Lighting Designer, Chief Electrician, Technical Manager, Production Manager, Production Electrician as well as roles in Stage Management – each of these requiring different things. I have also been 'resident' in a theatre as well as many years ‘on the road’ with various national and international tours.
Show work does require the need to work most evenings and sometimes very long hours so a flexible approach to social life is needed!
The pure technical side of the industry needs an inquiring mind; good fault finding skills and a thirst for new knowledge are a must.
Flexibility to the constant changes and a calm manner for long periods are also needed. As a lighting designer, you need the balance of science and art plus the ability to ‘see’ light – colour mixing and theory.
I suppose you do need a love of the industry and if I were to sum up in a few words what you need – keenness and the commitment to doing the best job and all with a smile. Many electromechanically trained people may not realise they can use their training and qualifications in the entertainment industry; that it can open up a totally new world to their skill sets – not for all, but definitely for some.
Are there any challenges involved that people should be aware of – late nights etc?
As mentioned above, a career in this industry means it takes over your social life. There are some very long days filled with some almost impossible requests and high pressure. “The show must go on” is a phrase which results with plenty of sweat and tears (and swearing at times ...).
What are the best parts of your job/most enjoyable aspects?
Being involved with a production that succeeds – that an audience enjoys – is a very special thing and hugely rewarding. Hitting deadlines, solving technical requests and problems, being part of a team of other like-minded people is very enjoyable. With touring I have visited many countries of the world and met some wonderful people.
What advice would you give to those who are embarking upon their electrotechnical careers?
Never stop learning, never stop caring, never stop trying and never stop enjoying – corny perhaps!
Are there any skill gaps at the moment, which more young electricians should aim to fill?
The entertainment industry is a bit odd – there are titles such as Chief Electrician filled by many with no electrical qualifications (yet have vast knowledge and experience to do a good and safe job within regulations). It is changing and I do welcome more formal qualifications in the industry.
I would like to see people from electrical courses that also have electronics knowledge. I would also like to see more training on courses to include BS 7909 Temporary Electrical Systems, which pertains to much of my industry.
IT and data knowledge is also an area where many people are lacking, although this is getting better as more equipment, even in households, is becoming ‘smart’.