Stagework

Stagework gets right behind the scenes to show the creative processes that produce exciting theatre. The website explores how theatre in performance can tackle important issues about individuals and society. It builds a set of compelling resources for people interested in teaching or learning about theatre and for those interested in a career in the creative industries.

Stagework is a unique resource created by the National Theatre and selected regional partners in England to take exciting theatre to new and existing audiences. Taking some of the best current theatrical productions in England, it goes behind the scenes to unpack the complex process of making theatre performance for the general theatre-goer, the life-long learner, curricular audiences and those who often find theatre inaccessible.

The project takes an issue-based approach to key productions in theatres around the country. It offers rich media content and curriculum resources based upon key productions for teachers and learners of English and Drama, Citizenship, and other subjects, enabling the use of theatre practice to stimulate and enhance creativity and the learning experience. It aims to increase the understanding of theatre as one of the creative industries, and open up young people to new career possibilities.

Stagework has launched and can be found at www.stagework.org.uk , with more productions to follow. 

It offers a unique insight into the making of the National Theatre's ambitious two-part production of the Philip Pullman epic, His Dark Materials. It uses video footage, photos, designs and diaries, as well as interviews with leading actors, and members of the creative and technical teams to show the evolution of the production from rehearsal to live performance.

There are insights into the issues behind the productions relevant to the curriculum. Stagework supports Key Stages 3 and 4 of the National Curriculum in English and Drama, Citizenship, Performing Arts, ICT and Communication skills. These resources will be developed over time as more productions are added, providing an increasingly rich set of resources for teachers and learners. This will enable teachers to use theatre practice to stimulate and enhance the learning and creativity of students. In addition there will be advice and guidance to teachers on how to achieve curriculum objectives in the form of lesson plans, schemes of work and teacher notes.

Stagework will enhance the understanding of theatre as one of the creative industries and open up new career opportunities to young people, providing information on careers in the theatre and the creative industries from top industry insiders in the fields of lighting, costume, props, sound and stage design.  

The project is led by the National Theatre and will involve regional theatres: Bristol Old Vic and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre . Illumina Digital will translate the theatrical content into a rich digital interactive experience. The project will continue to go behind the scenes to unpack the complex process of making theatre performance and will further expand with a wealth of other material - including regional productions . . .so keep coming back!