The series of events will give local teenagers a first taste of technical theatre.
UK - Fifteen venues across the UK will open their doors to 13- and 14-year-olds from 15 October until 2 December 2009, for The National Skills Academy for Creative & Cultural Skills' first interactive Offstage Choices careers events.

These events offer young people aged 13 and above a taste of the job roles available behind the scenes and offstage in technical theatre and live music events.

Pupils from local schools will meet and experience the work of a number of professionals including lighting and sound technicians, marketing and stage managers and designers, in venues from the New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth, up to the SAGE in Gateshead. Behind the scenes staff will share the tricks of their trade and experiences, working out of the 'spotlight'.

Offstage is produced by The National Skills Academy for Creative & Cultural Skills (NSA), a network of industry specialists in theatre, opera, live music events, festivals, Further Education colleges and training providers working together to develop and improve skills within the industry.

Robert West, Education & Curriculum Manager of the NSA, said: "This nationwide series of events will enable young people to discover career routes, enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour and meet industry professionals. By linking these venues and potential employers with our Founder Colleges, young people will also find out about training and support to get into jobs and careers in their area."

(Lee Baldock)


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