A Producer in theatre or music oversees the planning, coordination, and financial management of live performances or recordings. Their responsibilities include securing funding, hiring creative and technical teams, managing budgets, scheduling rehearsals, and ensuring the successful delivery of a production. Producers often work closely with directors, writers, and performers to bring creative visions to life while balancing artistic goals with practical considerations. This role requires strong organisational skills, a keen understanding of the arts industry, and the ability to solve problems and make quick decisions. While many producers work for established theatres, music venues, or production companies, others operate on a freelance basis or set up their own production companies.
The average salary for a theatre or music producer in the UK ranges from £25,000 to £45,000 per year, with experienced producers earning upwards of £60,000.
There are approximately 4,000 to 5,000 professionals working as producers in the UK performing arts sector, according to Creative UK data.
The creative industries, including theatre and music production, grew by 11.3 percent between 2021 and 2022, indicating an increasing demand for producers.
Oversees the production and management of musical theatre shows, coordinating between creative teams, performers, and technical staff to deliver successful stage musicals.
Organises and manages live music events, booking artists, arranging venues, and promoting concerts to attract audiences.
Assists the lead producer with the planning and execution of theatre productions, handling budgets, schedules, and communication with cast and crew.
Take courses or qualifications in performing arts, music, or production.
Many producers begin by studying subjects such as drama, performing arts, music, or arts management at A-level or university. Some universities offer specialised degrees in theatre production or music management. These courses will help you understand the creative process and technical aspects of live performances.
Volunteer or take part in school plays, concerts, or local theatre to gain practical experience.
Hands-on experience is invaluable. Join your school’s drama club, help backstage at local theatres, or volunteer to organise music events. This will give you insight into how productions are run and help you develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Learn to organise, budget, and communicate effectively with diverse teams.
Producers need to manage schedules, finances, and different personalities. Consider short courses in project management or leadership. Strong communication skills will help you work with directors, performers, and technical staff.
Apply for internships or entry-level jobs with production companies, theatres, or music venues.
Look for opportunities to shadow producers or assist on productions. Many large theatres and music venues offer placement schemes or work experience. This will help you build contacts and gain an understanding of the industry from the inside.
Start producing small-scale shows or concerts independently or with a team.
Once you have some experience, try producing your own event, such as a fringe theatre show or a local band night. This will help you develop organisational skills and prove your capability to potential employers or collaborators.
Apply for assistant producer or producer roles and showcase your work.
Create a portfolio of your productions, highlighting your achievements and the skills you contributed. Use your network to find out about job opportunities. As you gain experience, you can progress to larger productions and higher-profile roles.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Producer (Theatre/Music). Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
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Develop written and audio visual content.
A Theatre/Music producer quite closely parallels a TV or film producer, as both roles involve overseeing the development, coordination, and execution of creative projects within the entertainment industry. They require strong organisational skills, project management expertise, and a keen understanding of production processes to bring artistic visions to fruition.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a degree in film or television production before applying for work with a production company.
You'll find it helpful to take a course that includes practical skills and work placements, which will give you the chance to make industry contacts.
You'll usually need:
You could start by doing a college course, which may help you to get a job as a production assistant or runner. Courses include:
With experience, and further training, you could move on to become a producer.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could apply for a place on a Broadcast Production Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
This can take between 1 and 2 years to complete. It combines on-the-job training and time spent with a college or learning provider.
You'll usually need:
You could start out as a:
You may be able to move into production work as your skills and experience grow.
It's important to get as much practical production experience as you can, for example through:
You can search for film and TV companies to approach for opportunities through media business listing services, such as PACT and The Knowledge.
You may be able to join a training scheme to develop your skills and make contacts in the industry. Find out more from:
Some private training providers, film schools and agencies run short courses in production skills.
To do this job, you'll need a lot of experience in both the creative and business sides of film or programme making. You'll also need an in-depth understanding of the production process.
You can get advice about how to build a network of contacts in the industry, which may lead to training and work opportunities.
You can join The Production Guild, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Find out more about working in TV or film from:
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