How Folks Outside Theatre Can Earn in the Theatre Industry
Ever thought of how you can make cash, even without a background in theatre? Here’s something interesting—you can! I’ve explored several side gigs myself, from selling stuff on eBay, substitute teaching, to mystery shopping, but I’ve found that working temporarily in theatres (a fancy term we call ‘overhire’) to be quite lucrative.
You’re probably wondering, “What’s ‘overhire?'”. In simple terms, it means the theatre calls you in only when they need an extra pair of hands. Theatres often have their regular full-time crews who take care of most operations, but they sometimes need an extra team, and you could be part of this!
You need not be frightened by the theatre jargons or be armed with a theatre degree! If you’re not shy of a little physical work, joining a stage crew can be one opportunity for you. Job listings often reference ‘overhire crew’. Essentially, you could be responsible for loading and unloading trucks or putting some stuff together. Trust me, no one really knows how the entire set goes together except the folks on tour. All it takes is a bit of common sense. If you can screw bolt B into hole B on some scenery, you’re good to go.
Do you have woodworking skills? In my experience, it’s one of the simplest overhire jobs. Yes, you do need to be confident using tools, reading plans, and assembling a set, but if you handle your home repairs, you likely have got this!
Sewing skills can also earn you cash. Theatres often require short-notice ‘stitchers’—those who can do fundamental alterations or hemming items. I’d know since I’ve called many in for last-minute tasks at my theatre. You could add this to your overhire portfolio.
If you’re crafty and can find peculiar items, props jobs are there for you. Often, your time is flexible as you check in regularly with the production. Take it from me, having been a prop person, it’s one of my favourite roles. It’s fun, flexible, and it pays well!
Remember, aiming for local theatres should be your starting point. Smaller theatres may pay less, but they’re good places for honing your skills, making a side resume, and enjoying what you do—giving it a theatrical twist, so to say.
Overhire work is lucrative, flexible, and offers enjoyable work environments. Yes, sometimes you’d have long hours, tight deadlines, and handle heavy equipment. But that’s the part and parcel of it. Plus, the job often pays higher rates, has loads of opportunities, and who wouldn’t love to go to work in jeans and a t-shirt?
If that’s whetted your appetite, here are some links to help you find these kinds of jobs:
Offstagejobs – Props
Offstagejobs – Sets
Offstagejobs – Costumes
Offstagejobs – Last Minute
Playbill.com –Technical
Playbill.com – Other
StageJobsPro US (you’ll need a profile)
Gigs and Crew on Craigslist for your area
Don’t let prior perceptions hold you back. If you’ve got transferable skills, you might have found your new money-making venture in the theatre world. Share this opportunity and spread the word!