Introducing Helen Bovey, newly instated Producer (New Work/Talent Development) at the Northcott. Helen will be running our new talent development programme, Exeter Northcott Futures.
We took a moment to sit down with her and talk about the role of theatre producer.
How did you get into producing?
I fell into producing after self-producing my own artistic projects. I discovered that I particularly enjoyed overseeing a creative process, enabling and watching an idea come to life. I think the best producers often do find their way into the role this way; it all starts with a love for making or watching theatre. I then began to take on projects and work with artists across the South West to realise their ideas. I am particularly excited by theatre which is responsive to the world around us – work where the audience is central to the creation of the art.
What do you enjoy about the job?
Being a producer is one of the most varied roles in theatre. It’s a role that’s always at the heart of the creative process, overseeing projects and ensuring everything runs smoothly (and to budget). The role starts long before the artists are in the room together, from choosing and hiring the creative team to designing the budget, to securing a location and the finances to enable it to happen. Once the project is in swing it’s about getting the message out there; designing and running marketing campaigns, liaising with the creative team and evaluating aims and outcomes. It’s safe to say that no two days are ever the same!
What are the qualities of a good producer?
A drive to make things happen and the willingness to get stuck in and adapt to the demands of a project. Skills needed include: organisation, management (leadership qualities), communication and professionalism. The producer is still a creative, so it’s important to know the industry, see as much work as possible and have a strong sense of different audiences and markets for the work.
Interested in becoming a producer?
We are now receiving applications for our Producers Programme as part of Exeter Northcott Futures. Find out more about this six-month programme designed to provide a practical introduction to the role of the producer and the specific skills/knowledge involved in mounting a successful production here.
Deadline: Friday 3 January 2020
Exeter Northcott Futures is made possible thanks to the kind support of The Mackintosh Foundation, Idlewild Trust and The Noël Coward Foundation.
