Let's get technical: National Theatre's Young Technicians programme

Readers of this magazine need not be told that theatrical careers go far beyond acting – that indeed, there are hundreds of possible professions, from sound design and lighting, to building a set, and even pyrotechnics.

Carmel Macaree is the Project Manager for Young People at the National Theatre (NT), and her passion for theatre is rooted in helping young people to navigate careers in a supportive environment that equips them with the skills and confidence to first access, and then thrive in, the industry. Currently, she works on Young Technicians, the NT's free technical training programme for 13 to 19 year-olds who are interested in technical theatre. Participants develop their practical skills while learning about the huge variety of back- and off-stage roles that exist within theatre, and then put those learnings into practice – and even make connections that will serve their career.