In five years, I want to be working in commercial theatre as a contracted stage manager alongside freelancing as a graphic designer within the arts industry

• Learn design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign). Necessary skill as a prerequisite for Graphic Design minor DVB101 and DVB102. Following this, it is predicted that 90% of future jobs will require digital literacy, which is a predominant aspect of visual design (The Foundation for Young Australians, 2020).

• Continue working on commission designs. Take feedback where available from consumers, improving on mistakes, technique and quality. As a skill that improves with practice, my abilities will continually develop as pieces are created and my portfolio is expanded.

• Utilise LinkedIn to begin building a base within the professional industry. In Bridgstock’s study, creatives who employ social networking capabilities are more likely to build successful careers (Bridgstock, 2013). By implementing profiles on industry professional sites such as LinkedIn, I can connect with and gain further information on news within the theatre industry. As my skills improve and I become more qualified within my discipline, these connections will allow me to strengthen my reputation and advertise my brand; therefore, increasing the likelihood of employment.

• Research further into conflict resolution skills by learning techniques to address and resolve conflicts that may arise in the production team. As the role is the middleman of communication between many different elements, being able to diffuse tense situations between departments will allow for a production to continue running smoothly and to schedule.

• Purchase and learn digital tools for stage management that assist with organisation. Undergoing training for applications such as Excel and familiarising myself with the standard software of the industry will help with scheduling, script management, and communication.

• Attend local theatre events, workshops, and seminars to connect with others in the arts industry. This will further my connections with others in the arts and keep me up to date with performances and opportunities in the field. Learn and network with other creative practitioners and third years.

• Renew memberships for on-campus QUT clubs surrounding my degree such as Vena Cava. Improves social networking by connecting to others with different resources and enhancing my personal and professional development. These connections can be valuable for future job opportunities, internships, and career advice. Involvement in clubs can contribute to personal growth by boosting self-confidence and improving communication and teamwork skills.

• Join theatre-related online forums, social media groups, and networking sites. Participating in these sites offers benefits for personal, professional, and academic growth, allowing me to find a supportive community in the face of challenges and finding solutions.

• Volunteer as a graphic designer and stage manager for local theatre groups or school productions as a way to gain experience. Volunteering in a local theatre setting allows me to gain hands-on experience in the industry. This practical experience is invaluable, as it provides a real-world understanding of how theatre productions are organized and executed. It provides practical experience, networking opportunities, and skill development, which are crucial for advancing in the industry.

• Undertake training for First Aid. According to Live Performance Australia, a rehearsal room can be classified as a high-risk environment due to the frequency of improvisation. The role of stage management needs to ensure measures are in place to manage the safety of the team through appropriate training. (Live Performance Australia Editors, 2018). This certificate will further my ability to be employed as well as hold the necessary skills to provide immediate and potentially life-saving assistance in emergency situations. It is a valuable skill that can make a positive impact on individuals, workplaces, and communities.

• Take public speaking workshops to improve my anxiety around presenting in large groups. Communication plays a vital role in all aspects of the arts, being highly regarded in the professional world to be efficient. Furthermore, public speaking is a crucial aspect of leadership and maintaining a brand during freelance work. 

• Continue with Bachelor of Fine Arts (Technical Production) and enrol in complimentary studies in a Graphic Design minor. Take units in theatre production, technical theatre, and stage management to build knowledge and skills.

• Apply to the QUT mentorship program. The mentorship program is a great place to network with industry professionals, faculty/staff, and other professionals by receiving career advice, internship experiences, and expanding my professional network (QUT, 2023). It is a mutually rewarding relationship that fosters personal and professional growth, skill development, networking opportunities, and personal enrichment.

• Create a strong brand through a diverse portfolio of design work, including theatre-related projects as well as commission designs. Using a style developed over practice, form a distinguished style to advertise. This allows audiences to hold me accountable for maintaining a level of quality through my work (Thimothy, 2023). Creating a portfolio is an essential tool for creative professionals, not only to demonstrate your skills and abilities but also to help make a strong impression, build credibility, and open doors to new opportunities.

• Learn art-department skills such as crafting and arting props, set, and costuming. Make use of LinkedIn Learning and online tutorials to further abilities in different techniques for creating. Upskilling in crafting can be a fulfilling and enjoyable endeavour, growing with my living and psychological capital.

• Learn more about styles of rendering and editing digital works. Editing techniques, software, and tools are constantly evolving; upskilling in these styles allows me to become proficient in different software and meet industry standards as they evolve.

• Showcase a range of designs that highlight versatility and creativity through various styles and projects. Focusing on projects that demonstrate my ability to design for various mediums including, posters, programs, and digital media marketing. A well-curated range of designs allows me to portray the quality and diversity of my work, proving my capability to potential clients. It further serves as a documented record of achievement able to be paired with a creative resume.

• Upskill in technical software such as QLab, ETC, and SketchUp. Allows betterment of skills while staying up-to-date and not out-of-practice.

• Alongside upskilling in artistry software, save and purchase higher quality drawing tablets and software such as a Wacom Cintiq or Intous to further my quality in my career field and hobby art.

• Apply for internships, secondments, or apprenticeships with reputable theatres in Brisbane. Seeking roles primarily in stage management and graphic design roles. Internships provide an opportunity to gain practical, real-world experience that may be more valuable than theoretical knowledge. By taking internships, they allow me to apply the knowledge and concepts learned at university to real-world situations. This practical application enhances my understanding and retention of academic material.

• Contact unit coordinators to flag interest in areas of theatre to gain connections and opportunities that may not be publicly available. This can be further assisted by researching commercial theatre and finding connections in the field through graduates and staff.

• Attend conferences and workshops to enhance my knowledge and skills. By providing structured and immersive learning environments, they allow me to apply my learned knowledge immediately during the classes. In a workshop, I can receive immediate feedback from instructors and peers. This feedback helps identify areas for improvement and make corrections in real time.

• Enrol in Situated Creative Practise Extension and Situated Creative Practise Industry Projects. These creative practices allow me to understand the importance of time management, effective teamwork, and appropriate toolsets in a safe environment. I can work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary project to connect with a diverse group of peers and reflect on project experiences.

• Receive a certificate in Mental Health Training. Mental health training provides the tools to know how to have helpful, kind conversations around mental well-being and spot when others may need more specialised support (Fernand, 2021). Having a member of the creative team with mental health training is important to promote well-being, reduce stigma, and ensure that individuals and communities have effective support in facing mental health challenges.

• Gain training in Intimacy coordination. Intimacy training in a rehearsal room is vital for creating a safe, respectful, and professional environment where actors can engage in intimate scenes without fear or discomfort. It helps prevent physical and emotional harm, empowers actors, and improves the quality of performances.

• Take advanced design courses externally to refine my abilities and develop a unique style. Being able to set my work apart from other artists is important to creating my brand and identity. Developing a style also mirrors personal expression, allowing me to communicate ideas and emotions.

• Apply for the Touring Queensland Fund, which provides a wealth of resources to achieve specific goals for future projects and cover expenses in the field.

• Research into safety and emergency procedures. Knowledge of safety protocols is essential to ensure the well-being of the cast and crew during the rehearsal and performance seasons. Knowing Australian standards can save lives, prevent injuries, and minimise damage during various emergencies. Having a plan and knowing what to do in an emergency can reduce panic and fear, allowing audience members, company, and team members to be as safe as possible.

• Familiarise myself with copyright and licensing laws. As a majority of commercial musicals are licensed through MTI or Origin, having in-depth knowledge of what can be done with the intellectual property will avoid issues with the contract regarding media release. Furthermore, in creating my work I will be able to manage the situation if my work is being stolen or replicated.

• Learn more about marketing and branding, finding strategies specific to the theatre and arts industry to effectively promote productions through my designs.

Continue to join local and online theatre communities to expand my network and connections with other artists.

• Trial multiple areas of theatre. Although I plan to go into commercial theatre, having knowledge of drama, dance, spoken word, opera, or circus performances will allow me to be multifaceted and take opportunities when available. My versatility in theatre skills makes me a more valuable asset in the industry, allowing me to easily problem-solve using a range of knowledge in the field.

• Apply for jobs in the industry, primarily looking for contracted casual work in local theatre companies such as Queensland Theatre or La Boite. Start building expertise by seeking out relevant projects or internships.

• Continue applying for secondments and internships. Aim for more professional outlets that align with commercial theatre such as the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.

• Continue to volunteer on theatre projects to gain hands-on experience. Gain deeper connections with specific theatre groups and develop loyalty with a small group to create a successful group dynamic.

• Attend theatre industry events and conferences to meet directors, producers, and other higher-up professionals.

• Volunteer or take low pay rates for graphic design positions for theatre companies or production houses. While my experiences broaden my abilities for my desired future career, I can channel my passive skills into professional projects while still creating work for my own self-expression and monetary support (Hirschman, 1983).

• Enrol in National Institute of Dramatic Arts online courses to further upskill in set design. Through upskilling, employees are also able to fill skill gaps or take on managerial roles within the company when presented with the opportunity. By upskilling, employees will have a greater wealth of knowledge and understanding (David, 2021). Further abilities through National Institute of Dramatic Arts online courses to upskill in design and niche elements in short periods (NIDA, 2023)

• Develop strong organisational and problem-solving skills through workshops. The dynamic and fast-paced nature of theatrical productions, whether on stage or behind the scenes, demands individuals who can effectively plan, manage, and address challenges. Having the ability to manage these skills is vital to maintain challenges that arise.

• Will update as required.

• Continue gaining proficiency with software. Stay up-to-date with graphic design and stage management software, such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and be able to explore new tools and technologies.

• Update portfolio with my most significant and successful projects. An up-to-date portfolio communicates my values, aesthetics, and creative approach to my work. Having an updated portfolio can inspire and motivate me to continue producing high-quality work, reminding me of my achievements and encouragement to pursue new creative goals.

• Seek recommendations and referrals from professionals I’ve worked with. Being able to further network and have the trust of professionals will lead to being recommended for further opportunities.

• Apply for contracted work solely within one theatre. Primarily searching for part-time or full-time stage management positions with commercial theatres such as QPAC or touring with productions. Only 50% of 25-year-olds will have secured full-time employment despite holding a post-school qualification (AlphaBeta, 2018). To combat this, theatre companies will typically contract for seasons of work at a time on a time-based schedule, allowing for more confidence in finding the next show to work on.

• Continue to expand my professional network by attending industry events. These events often feature seminars, workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speakers who share the latest insights, trends, and best practices in the industry. Many industry events feature job fairs, recruitment sessions, or platforms for showcasing my work, offering opportunities for career advancement, job interviews, and exposure.

• Enrol in National Institute of Dramatic Arts online courses, specialising in costume and lighting design. Connecting and sharing experiences with industry peers can lead to innovative problem-solving and fresh approaches to common issues.

• Take advanced courses in areas like motion graphics or interactive design, as these skills can be valuable in theatre promotion.

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• Tailor resume and cover letter for specific applications within graphic design and stage management. Display relevant experiences and skills to highlight certain experiences that will stand out more to specific employers. Through the ability to tailor myself to an employer, I gain an understanding of my value in different job ‘markets’ that require certain skills and experience (Bowtell, J. 2018).

• Continue working on commissions and art-development skills as a hobby. Continuously developing my skills allows me to stay relevant and effectively navigate evolving industries and technologies. Developing skills often leads to increased efficiency and productivity, being able to produce high-quality content at a faster rate.

• Collaborate with theatre professionals to further reputation and gain exposure. Professionals bring their expertise and knowledge to a collaboration, and maintaining a good reputation allows for higher opportunities. Successful projects demonstrate my ability to work effectively with others.

• Work on a major commercial production touring through the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Follow along with the upcoming productions and contact the team early, save enough to possibly follow the production on tour if popular enough to circulate through other major cities in Australia.

• Continue to attend industry events to network and keep up-to-date with upcoming productions and available contracts.

• Attend advanced training programs or workshops to further hone my abilities and allow the betterment of my skills. Engaging in advanced education encourages a mindset of continuous learning and personal growth, being personally fulfilling, and offering a sense of accomplishment and mastery. Advanced education is also an investment in my future success, with the potential for long-term career and personal growth.

• Will update as required