Thames Music And Drama

For every performance we need people at the doors to check tickets and usher people to their seats as quickly as possible so that the show can start on time. Unless sold out we also usually offer door sales. We need someone to take reponsibility for the float and accurately recording ticket and programme sales.  As these tasks as only required before the show, the roles are sometimes doubled up with the teas and shop roles.  Otherwise helper can usually go home about 15-20 minutes after the show starts (you need to wait around for a little while in case there are late patrons). 

Most shows require a few small objects that either help set the scene or are held and/or used by the cast.  These are called 'property' or props for short.  We need someone who will take responsibility to borrow, buy and make whatever the director wants; collect them together and ensure that the they are looked after for the duration of the production; then returned when finished.  This sort of role is one you can do in your own time and fit around your schedule.    The items may be as simple as a hankerchief and book through to a medieval shield or japanese fan.  You will be given a budget to work with but creativity is the key here.  You can ask family, friends and cast what they can bring from home but the $2 type shops are also amazing for this role. 

During major productions in the Civic Centre we often have cast waiting in changing rooms (green rooms) all over the building.  When cast are not required on stage they wait in these areas and amuse themselves.  As noise levels need to be controls back stage we need someone to ensure that the activities are quiet and non destructive (particularly with large groups of children).  Cast members can get distracted with a game of cards or reading and do not notice when their next scene is coming up.  A caller moves from back stage to the green rooms to give cast plenty of notice that they are required soon.  Sometimes they can't be found immediately or need to reappply makeup after eating so early notice is the key.  This role involves knowing the show quite well. 

It's no good producing a show if no-one knows it's on. Marketing includes all forms of media that encourage people to see the show - posters, newspaper ads, flyers, facebook, website, enewsletter, banners, flashmobs etc.

A good marketing campaign will have a theme look or image/message that is carried out through all media forms to strengthen the message.  Having a good eye for design and creativite thinking is a huge advantage. Marketing may also be required to produce the show's programme.

The need for a Make-up and/or Hair team will vary from show to show.  A small play set in modern times staged in the Tararu Rooms can usually be handled by the cast members themselves, however a major production staged at the Civic Centre will have a large cast and lighting and distance to audience challenges.  Each show requires some-one to create a look that fits with the Director's vision.  They can then teach others.  Obviously a show set in a particular period will require more work and a team may need to be assembled. Also magical,  mythical or character based shows will be more challenging.  There are many good books and web tutorials for guidance. The good thing is that you can do the study in your own time and your commitment will mainly be production week and the season itself. 

Another technical job that involves design, set-up and operation. Shows may include drop mics, floor mics, headsets, hand-helds, cordless, amps, fold backs, and speakers.  We use a sound board that can be operated from a laptop for ease of use. If headsets or body mics are being used there will need to be a sound person backstage also to ensure everything is set before the actors steps out on stage. An electrical background (as things can sometimes break in the middle of a show) and a good ear would be helpful. There is often a team so you can learn on the job.  Specific courses are also available for those keen to develop their skills.  

A technical job that involves lighting design, set up and operation. Can include special effects and foloow spots.  We use a lighting board that can be pre-progammed for every lighting change (and belive me there can be a lot) in a show.  There is often a small team so training can be given on the job, or specific courses are also available for those keen to develop their skills. Age is not a barrier so young to older can get involved in this space. 

All major productions will require someone to work closely with the Director - taking notes during rehearsals and ensuring that any changes required are passed onto the appropriate person in the production team (ie. costumes, hair, props).  They will generally be required to attend every rehearsal and production meeting so that they have a good understanding of the Director's requirements.  They may also be in charge of keeping record of who has been assigned copies of hired scripts and scores; taking role call at rehearsals; organising refershments; and anything else required by the Director and Producers (within reason).  Best suited to a very detail orientated person with good communication skills.

The Musical Director works closely with the Director to ensure that the music fits wih their vision.  They work with musicians or backing tracks as well as the singers.  Being able to read music is essential and having a good ear to be able to arrange pieces as required by the director.  This is a demanding role but very rewarding. 

Obviously every show is going to require costumes of some sort, however these range from everyday clothes to period costumes.  We already own a good range of costumes and that is always the best place to start when pulling together the look that the director is wanting.  We also borrow and hire costumes as required.  This role can be quite time consuming and you may need a small team to help with some productions. It is helpful to come and watch a few rehearsals so you know what movements the character has to be able to perform in the costume and what size and shape the actor is.  Sewing experience is a real advantage however as our theatre costumes are not seen up close fussiness about finishes is not required.