In Conversation with Helen Barratt, Head of Pathway for Stage Management

We caught up with Helen Barratt, our new Head of Pathway for Stage Management (BA Production Arts), during her first few weeks at Guildhall School. We talked through career highlights such as company managing Wicked and Avenue Q, as well as finding out how important a practical approach is when learning Stage Management.

What was your first experience within the performing arts? How did you know this was something that you wanted to pursue professionally?

I studied English and Drama at Sheffield University and spent the majority of my time stage or production managing several student shows in the fabulous little converted church they owned. I decided I had found my calling and went on to train at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.

Can you tell us more about some of your career highlights, so far?

I kept mixing things up so as not to get pigeon-holed and am proud to have worked on so many varied projects. I’ve toured nationally and internationally, which is a fantastic way to see the world. I was Assistant Stage Manager Book Cover on the original Miss Saigon, which was beyond exciting and one of the most complicated books in the West End. At the National Theatre, I was able to do all three stage management roles in the three different spaces, including Noises Off, Peter Pan and Our Lady of Sligo.

In the West End, I have Company Managed or been Company Stage Manager on Wicked, Avenue Q, Spring Awakening and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time to name a few. I was lucky enough to Company Manage Secret Cinema’s Empire Strikes Back with a cast of 70, as well as Production Coordinating the 25^th anniversary concerts for Les Mis at the O2, and Phantom at the Royal Albert Hall. Working as Group Manager for the Victory Ceremonies for the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics was another highlight, as was Company Managing an amazing production of Sweeney Todd in a pie shop, complete with pies and mash.

What is something about working in the industry that we wouldn’t know?

No day is ever the same just as no performance is ever the same – there are always new challenges being thrown at you which makes the job both exciting and stressful in equal measures. To thrive in this industry, you need to enjoy the adrenaline!

What are you most looking forward to in your new role at Guildhall?

First and foremost, working with the students and sharing my experience and expertise with the next generation of stage managers. With a great work ethic and positive attitude, they will have no problem getting into the industry and enjoying a fantastic career in theatre, film, TV, events, cruises or whichever path they choose to follow.

Can you tell us what students can expect from your Stage Management undergraduate course?

It’s a very practical course, where students will learn how the production process works, the different roles within the Stage Management team, management skills and the understanding of a variety of other departments. The best way to learn how to work on a show is to do just that, so they will have plenty of opportunities on plays and operas in our three different theatres, all with amazing facilities. They will also be able to manage events and go on placements in professional companies to gain industry experience. And, of course, they will have a lot of fun and meet some amazing people.

How can students stand out when applying to your course?

We are looking for students who are enthusiastic, positive, have a keen interest in performance arts and are prepared to put in the hard work. We will teach them everything they need to know so previous experience is nice to have but absolutely not essential.

What advice would you give to students interested in studying production arts?

Go for it! Find out as much as you can about all the different roles backstage and see what appeals to you. Join a local theatre company or the drama group at school. Contact your local theatre and see if you can shadow or have a backstage tour. See as many shows as you can. Read plays and think about how you would put them on – what would the lighting and sound feel like, how would you find or make the props…? And be prepared to work really hard for long hours. It’s a lifestyle choice so you need to have a passion for what you do. The rewards can be amazing!

To find out more about Helen’s course, book now to attend our upcoming Production Arts Open Day.