Interview by: Chris Baker
Jun 2024
For the past two years, Abi Jones has been working with us as a Production Manager Apprentice.
The apprenticeship was funded by the Cameron Mackintosh Foundation, and education was provided by Chichester College. The role has seen her work on some of our in-house productions, such as The Artist, Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas and The Key.
She has recently achieved a double distinction for her Level 7 apprenticeship, which is the equivalent of a Master’s degree.
Abi reflects on some of her achievements and learnings from the past two years.
What did the course teach you?
“It varied from understanding the organisation and how we produce work, what a Production Manager might do in different types of art forms, like musicals and circus, through to understanding set building and technical drawings. A lot of it involved working with creative teams, budgeting, scheduling and a bit of health and safety too.”
What project are you most proud of?
“Working on The Key. That’s what I did my final presentation on. It involved such a lot of people, and I was very tired afterwards, but the actual performance made it all worth it.”
What are some other highlights from your time here?
“To work on The Artist was a massive knowledge boost. I’ve never worked backstage on a production of that size.
“Working on Father Christmas and in Channings Wood prison with the Our Space project were also highlights.
“I love a production where you have £4.50 in the budget and everyone’s trying to make it work, but there’s a huge sense of collaboration and community.”
What have you learned about the industry during your apprenticeship?
“If you take the time to find common ground with people, it’s a brilliant industry to work in. It’s like a little community. We look at problems from a different angle than perhaps other industries, which are a bit more rigid.”
What have you learned about yourself in the process?
“I need to believe in myself a little bit more, but that’s an evolution. It’s been great through the process having Hugh (Head of Production), my line manager, supporting me.
“I’ve learned how important it is to build a rapport with people and understand how they communicate. Everyone has their own style of communication so understanding that has been hugely helpful.”
What will be your biggest take away from the past two years?
“That it’s okay to ask questions, and not feel bad about that. Now that I’m qualified, I will still ask questions, as that’s where learnings are made. I’ll just try and ask one question, not 46.”
How are you feeling about what’s next?
“My heart lies in community projects. To manage a small-scale non-commercial project where there isn’t much time or budget, would be a dream – I love a challenge.
“I love seeing children or people who would never normally come to the theatre be touched and be changed by a performance, either by seeing it or being in it.
“I’m really grateful for the support, not just from Hugh, but everyone in the organisation who has been so supportive with my learning. They’ve encouraged me, given me their time and knowledge.”