The Royal Shakespeare Company has recruited a record number of apprentices, 28, across every area of its work.
The focus of the RSC’s national apprenticeship programme is on those who are under-represented in the arts industry or those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Apprenticeships and traineeships include venue management, costume, prop making, scenic carpentry, scenic engineering, catering, customer services and finance.
Jacqui O’Hanlon, the RSC’s director of creative learning and engagement, said, “we know that lack of talent and potential isn’t the issue—lack of opportunity and awareness is. We need a consistent and confident message to flow through formal and higher education that careers in the arts and creative industries exist, and that there are inclusive pathways into them for young people.
“At the RSC, we’re committed to our role as a teaching theatre—a learning organisation that invests in, supports and trains current and future generations of theatre artists and professionals to build a stronger, fairer and more diverse arts sector.”
Stage and props apprentice Olivia Creed commented, “my favourite thing about my apprenticeship is it’s so hands-on. I learn so much and it's so varied because of all the different shows that come in. At the end of my apprenticeship I’d love stay here and keep learning and enjoying what I'm doing.”
Further information about the apprenticeships can be found at the Royal Shakespeare Company web site.