The National Theatre and Bank of America have announced a major new partnership today, designed to address the urgent need for more technical theatre staff in the UK.
With Bank of America acting as lead partner of the National Theatre Skills Centre, the support is planned to propel the expansion of training and support for those in the early-to-middle stages of their career. This support will take the form of skills development and training programmes. The joint initiative aims to reach 15,000 individuals over the next three years.
Government data suggests that 30% of job vacancies in the cultural sector are affected by skills shortages. This major new initiative will expand opportunities in a range of areas, including: paid production placements on every South Bank show staring from September 2025; more craft, design and technical courses over the next 12 months hosted at the National Theatre; and opportunities to work with industry-leading experts, both at the National Theatre and nationwide through local partnerships.
Another key element of the Skills Centre’s aims is to address underrepresentation within the industry, prioritising those from the Global Majority, D/deaf and disabled, and those who have experienced socio-economic disadvantage.
Kate Varah, Executive Director and co-Chief Executive of the National Theatre, commented: ‘With the creative industries generating £126 billion in gross value added to the UK economy annually (greater than the life sciences, aerospace and automotive sectors combined), the sector is a powerhouse of growth, innovation, and global influence. However, this contribution is at risk if the skills shortage is not addressed as a matter of urgency. We can’t fix this problem on our own which is why I am delighted about this new iteration of our partnership with Bank of America.’
‘Through this three-year, UK-wide commitment,’ commented Andrea Sullivan, International Executive, Head of Social and Environment Group at Bank of America, ‘we hope to help equip young artists, craftspeople and technicians with the skills needed to find gainful employment in their creative field. By fostering talent and nurturing the potential of individuals, we will ignite innovation and develop an ecosystem where skilling transforms industries.’
The Government have also shown support for the partnership, with Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, stating: ‘This partnership between the National Theatre and Bank of America is a perfect example of how, by working together, we can create opportunities and give young people the experiences they need to kick start a rewarding career in the cultural and creative industries.’