"In the workshop I lead a team of skilled woodworkers"

Hometown
Stratford upon Avon

What do you do?
Deputy manager, scenic workshop, Royal Shakespeare Company

What was your very first role in theatre?
Scenic workshop carpenter

Have you got qualifications?
Four-year apprenticeship in joinery with City and Guilds college course

What did you do before you worked in theatre?
I was a carpenter/ joiner in the building industry

How did you make the move to working in theatre?
I was offered a job with the Royal Shakespeare Company in their scenic workshop

What do you do all day?
In the workshop I lead a team of skilled woodworkers. I am responsible for health and safety, quality control and training.

What’s the best thing about your job?
I enjoy the variety and the challenge of the job

And the worst?
The long hours that are sometimes involved

What’s your dream job in theatre?
I am happy with the job I have got

Got any wise words for someone who wants to be where you are now?
Get the right training. This will probably be a foundation course at college followed by training in the workplace.