What qualifications would I need to work to do with costumes in theatres?

Question:I've always loved acting and watching musicals... I'd like a job behind-the-scenes so I thought costume and props seemed quite interesting. What qualifications would you need and what opportunities are there- as in what career paths are there in a theatre? And what do these jobs involve?

I'm currently in year 10 and my GSCE's include: art, drama, textiles, maths, eng lit, eng lang, statistics and hairdressing VRQ (equivalent to 4 GCSEs)

Thanks in advance for any help =) x

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I've always loved acting and watching musicals... I'd like a job behind-the-scenes so I thought costume and props seemed quite interesting. What qualifications would you need and what opportunities are there- as in what career paths are there in a theatre? And what do these jobs involve?

I'm currently in year 10 and my GSCE's include: art, drama, textiles, maths, eng lit, eng lang, statistics and hairdressing VRQ (equivalent to 4 GCSEs)

Thanks in advance for any help =) x

You sound to have a great range of subjects for your GCSEs. There are various routes you can take. If you go to Art College you can study Fashion and textiles which is always a good basis. Your local Tech is also a good way to get a practical training. Learn to sew and do pattern cutting. Hair dressing is also very useful as you could be working with wigs for period pieces in theatre and TV. Know a bit about History.
You might have to start by looking after the costumes
ie doing the laundry and minor repairs but this is how you learn. Show willing and work hard. You will never be bored It is the most interesting job in the world. Good luck S

If you have enthusiam you can go far without qualifications as experience matters more in this field

Get yourself working voluntarily for a local theatre first or work with an amatuer dramatics company

For a local theatre you will start off at the bottom maybe sorting out the wardrobe and work your way upwards and earn more the more you learn

You will have a little more creative freedom working for an amatuer company but I would really recommed getting yourself in with a local theatre as you are firmly on the career path there even if it is voluntary at first

Of course if you want there are degrees in the subject but whatever path you choose,Go find your dreams and good luck!

If you have a local theatre, get involved while you are working on graduating. Your drama instructor would be one to get some great insight from. Talk to him/her about what your interests are. To get into costuming, it is good to have design and sewing experience. Being a dresser for the actors is a good place to get started, and you may be able to be a wardrobe assistant to get hands on experience. The more experience and involvement you obtain, the more opportunities will open to you.
Best of luck!

There is also a need for hairdressers, since you are taking that, along with make-up. If you get into props, theatres hire stage hands. Lighting and sound requires electrical and electronic background.