The Creative Arts industry is a very diverse field and offers many opportunities to follow your passion for creativity, without having to compromise on making a good living and enjoying a fulfilling career.

The next in our Careers in the Creative Arts series is Theatre/Venue Manager.

Do you have what it takes to run a theatre? Would you like to book acts and plan a season of performances? What is being a Theatre Manager all about?

Theatre Manager

So, what do they do?

Theatre managers are responsible for the overall smooth running of venues. They are responsible for the building itself and for health and safety. They are involved in every aspect of bringing an act to the stage of their venue, from researching the act, booking them and marketing the show. They also meet with the clients to discuss their needs and help to promote the show. They are also responsible for managing the other theatre staff.

What type of person would make a good Theatre Manager?

Theatre Managers must have excellent organisational skills and have a good business brain in order to maximise ticket sales. Advanced Communication and Persuasion skills are also desirable in order to attract and work with clients. An ability to work as part of a team is also a must, as is being flexible with your time as performances and afterwards can often run quite late.

OK, so how do I become a Theatre Manager?

There are no specific courses in Theatre Management however related courses in Theatre Studies such as MIC’s Contemporary and Applied Theatre Studies degree or CIT’s Theatre and Drama Studies courses would give a good insight into the profession. Other areas of study that are relevant are Event Management and Sales and Marketing.

Finally, are there jobs and what’s the pay like?!

Although many local theatres are much smaller and often only employ a manager on a part-time basis, there are a number of the major theatres that require a full-time manager. Salary rates can range from €26k - €51k. Higher salaries are awarded relevant to experience and size of theatre.

If you are interested in finding out more information about what a Theatre/Venue Manager is, what they do and how you might become one, just go to our Career Explorer where you will find detailed information on this occupation and over 1,000 other careers.

You might also do some research on the Art, Craft and Design Music and Drama & Theatre Business, Tourism and Events sectors which are also relevant to this occupation.

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