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Exploring technical skills gaps in UK theatre
A new report uncovers widespread off-stage technical skills shortages in UK theatre, highlighting the challenges venues face in recruiting and retaining essential behind-the-scenes talent.
This report presents key findings from a national survey examining off-stage technical skills shortages in UK theatre. Commissioned by the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre, and funded by Gatsby, the research was conducted by Shift Insight to understand current workforce challenges within the sector.
Together, SOLT and UK Theatre represent over 500 of the UK’s leading theatre producers, venue owners and performing arts centres, alongside more than 1,350 professional theatre makers. The survey aimed to explore which off-stage roles are hardest to fill, how skills shortages contribute to vacancies, what employers are doing to address these gaps, and why technical qualifications are underused.
The results reveal widespread skills shortages across off-stage technical roles, with particular difficulty filling mid-level and freelance positions. Employers reported the most acute shortages in sound and lighting technicians, including automation specialists. Other roles in high demand include carpentry, wigs, hair and make-up (WHAM), and general stage crew.
Across the board, mid-level technical roles emerged as the most pressing concern. Many organisations are struggling to recruit skilled professionals in roles that are vital to the delivery of high-quality productions, especially in sound, lighting, automation, WHAM and stage operations.
This research highlights the urgent need to invest in training and career pathways to support the sustainability of the UK theatre industry’s technical workforce.