Producer

A theatre producer decides what the production will be, arranges the finance for it, and assembles a creative team (director, cast, technicians and administrative staff).

In commercial theatre, the producer aims to make enough profit to finance the run of the show, and pay the performers, production staff and themselves.

In subsidised theatre, producers are known as production managers and have to work within, and control, a given budget.

During the run of the show, the role of the producer will involve: supporting the production; liaising with everyone involved in the production; finding solutions to problems that occur along the way; controlling the budget; and making sure that the company works well as a team.

If the production is going on tour, the producer also books the venues in advance, and arranges transport and publicity for the show.

Starting salaries are around £15,000 to £20,000 a year. With experience, salaries can reach £40,000 a year or more, depending on your track record and the budget available.

Minimum rates for producers are set by Equity, the performers' and entertainment workers' trade union.

To become a producer, you will need a high level of knowledge and experience in theatre practice.

You could move into the job after training as an actor or working your way up through backstage work, but you could have trained as a stage manager and have a university or drama school qualification in stage management.

Relevant qualifications in stage management and technical theatre include: degrees and professional diplomas at drama school – see the National Council for Drama Training (NCDT) website for information on accredited courses; BTEC HNDs in Performing Arts (Production); and foundation degrees and degrees in theatre practice, theatre arts or stage management. You should check exact entry requirements with course providers.

Funding for some accredited courses may be available through the Learning and Skills Council's Dance and Drama Award Scheme.

Practical backstage experience is as important as having qualifications when it comes to finding paid work.

You can get relevant experience from being involved in student, amateur or community theatre, or from working as a casual stagehand in local theatre venues.