How long have you been at Catherine Wheels?
14 months!
What does your job involve?
As Touring Manager I manage our tours to venues (theatres/community centres etc) both here in the UK and internationally. That involves selling our shows to programmers, scheduling in bookings, issuing contracts, organising visas, issuing invoices etc. I work very closely with our Production Director, Craig, to make sure that technically and logistically everything can work!
I’m filling in for Anna Derricourt whilst she is on secondment with Theatre in Schools Scotland.
What has been a Catherine Wheels highlight for you?
Tour booking White, as I have been a massive fan of the show since I saw it at the Traverse few Christmases ago. It made me fall in the love with the company and want to work for them. I’ll have worked on 6 tours of the show since I started!
What’s your favourite thing about your job?
I love organising so I find it very satisfying piecing together the jigsaw of a tour.
What’s the best thing about working in theatre?
Seeing the audience reaction to a great show.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to work as a touring manager?
Tour booking is much easier if you have relationships with the programmers who run the venues. In terms of Scottish theatre the best way to meet people is to become a member of FST and attend their annual programming market day Emporium, and their members’ meetings. They are brilliant networking opportunities. You should also attend lots of shows in different venues around the country. And phone people! I find it is often pleasant and quicker if you can have a phone chat with a programmer about your show.
Can you tell us a Catherine Wheels secret?
Suzie’s leaving do taught me that they certainly know how to throw a party!
And finally, how would you describe Catherine Wheels in three words?
Charming, special, playful