The Industry

There are heaps of techs out there, just like actors. And just like actors it is helpful to have a special skill (actors may be more likely to be hired if they have skills in American accents or can juggle, etc. Techs are more likely to be hired if they have a certain licence, have used a certain piece of equipment etc.), and like actors, it is mainly word of mouth.

Techs do have production companies, but there aren't a lot of 'agencies' like what there are for actors. There aren't auditions, but most of the time there is a meet and greet (seeing if each person/company is compatible), but for larger companies or community centres/venues there is an interview.

If you're keen on getting into it, email me, as I am a Melbourne techie (even if you're interstate, it helps to have advice), and know most of the stuff you have to go through. I can also give you a list of courses, companies to talk to, etc.

A course is a very wise thing to do - acting you can get away with taking a few classes and getting lots of experience, but with tech there is a lot of stuff you have to be trained for. In Victoria, you can't legally work as a lighting technician (even just hanging the lights), without being trained. A lot of people don't have official training, but do work closely with someone professional, who trains them. This isn't the best way to go about it, because these days you also need safety training, which you won't get 'on the job'.

Hope that helps,

Na