The National Theatre is to open applications for its training programme Nationwide Young Technicians, which is being run in partnership with regional theatres.
Nationwide Young Technicians offers youngsters aged 13 to 19 the chance to develop practical skills and learn about the variety of backstage and offstage roles that exist within theatre. The free programme is delivered online to reach as many young people nationwide as possible.
Online sessions are delivered by leading industry professionals from the National Theatre. The 11-week programme covers lighting, staging, sound and video and takes place from Tuesday 4 February 2025.
Young people in the East Midlands will also have the opportunity to take part in in-person workshops at Nottingham Playhouse to put their skills into practice, while in Greater Manchester the scheme is run in partnership with HOME Manchester and in Plymouth with that city's Theatre Royal.
Nottingham Playhouse will hold a free open day for those looking to learn more about the Young Technicians Programme on Saturday 9 November, from 10AM until 2PM.
Simon Stephens, head of skills centre at the National Theatre, said, “we offer young people a clear route to learn new skills and explore careers in the theatre sector. We’re delighted to be opening applications for our Nationwide Young Technicians programme for young people in Nottingham to raise awareness of those less visible roles in theatre.”
Andrew Quick, head of production at Nottingham Playhouse, commented, “as a leading regional producing theatre we see it as our responsibility to nurture and train the next generation of young technicians. We’re proud to work alongside the National Theatre to offer this really practical, hands-on approach and look forward to welcoming more young people into the industry.”
Samuel Beagley, Creative Development Practitioner for Theatre at HOME, said, “we’re thrilled to support the National Theatre’s Young Technicians Programme. This is a great opportunity for young people who are passionate about technical theatre production and want to learn more. Offering real-world experience not only develops their skillset, it also builds their confidence, encouraging participants to pursue impactful careers in the arts. Initiatives like this are crucial in empowering the next generation of creative professionals.”
Applications for the Nationwide Young Technicians programme can be made at the National Theatre web site. They close on Monday 9 December at 10AM.