Over 1,000 Young People Attend TheatreCraft 2013 Careers Fair at Royal Opera House

More than 1000 young people aged 16-25 from all over the UK attended TheatreCraft 2013, the free non-performance theatre careers fair that was opened at 9am today (Friday 22 November 2013) by Jamie Lloyd at the Royal Opera House.

Now in its eighth year, TheatreCraft is a fun and unique glimpse into the 'behind the scenes' world of theatre. Participants spent the day exploring topics including producing, stage management, wig-making, lighting, marketing, theatre journalism, sound, directing, costume design, playwriting and designing. Delegates were able to choose from over 70 workshops delivered by skilled theatre professionals, meet more than 50 exhibitors in the bustling marketplace, visit the 'Ask the Experts' zone which offers one-to-one advice sessions with 33 industry experts and, new this year, go to networking hubs to interact with their peers.

Jamie Lloyd, in an address to participants this morning, said: "It's ok not to have an idea of what exactly you want to do in theatre or why, it is your passion and drive to be part of the industry that is the most important thing. This vital and important event gives you a chance to explore that passion. So soak it up and make the most of this day. Make it the best day of your life!"

22 year old Leeds based student Jamie Simmons, an aspiring director, braved a very early start and travelled down on the megabus at 3am this morning to be in time to hear Jamie Lloyd's speech.

Commenting on the day Jamie Simmons said; "Meeting Jamie Lloyd was brilliant, I can't believe it. Trying to break into directing where I'm based can be a struggle which is why coming today was so important for me. Standing face to face with potential employers gave me a much better angle to be able to portray my passion for, understanding of and dedication to the arts. I hope to find some kind of work placement, which I need as part of my university course, out of the contacts I made today."

TheatreCraft is organised by Creative and Cultural Skills, Mousetrap Theatre Projects, the Royal Opera House, Society of London Theatre and Theatre Royal Haymarket Masterclass Trust.

It is sponsored by PLASA, White Light, Scott Fleary and John Good. Media partners are The Stage, A Younger Theatre and Fourth Wall Magazine.

For more information and all the latest news about TheatreCraft visit www.theatrecraft.org.