Theatre masterclass
We go backstage to see how theatre professionals work
British theatre audiences are backward in coming forward
Hermione Hoby: Moments before curtain up, New Yorkers dash for empty seats closer to the stage. Could UK audiences be more bold?
Theatre masterclass: Julian Gilbert
Creating realistic costumes that don't weigh a ton is all part of the battle, says the head of armour and boots at the Royal Shakespeare Company
Theatre masterclass: Bob Crowley, set and costume designer
The joy of the blank page, the thrill of a big stage and the search for the perfect chair are all part of the job
Theatre masterclass: Mic Pool
Award-winning director of creative technology Mic Pool reveals how sound and video design create a magical onstage world
Theatre masterclass: Maggie Lunn, casting director
Assembling a lineup of actors requires a keen eye, passion and diplomacy. Plus, it's the perfect excuse to watch lots of plays
Theatre masterclass: Ballet mistress Ursula Hageli
Looking after the dancers at the Royal Opera House requires patience, stamina and the eyes of a hawk. Just don't tell them to break a leg ...
Theatre masterclass: Video designer Leo Warner
The video whiz whose hits include Black Watch and Waves explains how he aims to bring film and theatre closer
Theatre masterclass: Simon Russell Beale
Great drama is all about constructing an argument and giving maximum pleasure, says the actor, currently juggling Chekhov and Shakespeare at the Old Vic
Theatre masterclass: Alison Chitty
Life as a set and costume designer isn't always glamorous, says Alison Chitty – there's the shopping in H&M, for a start
Theatre masterclass: Clare Higgins
The Olivier-winner explains why acting is like sex and extols the benefits of a kick up the bum from Jonathan Kent
Theatre masterclass: Lighting designer Mark Henderson
Actors and sets might steal the show – but only if they're well lit. Award-winner Mark Henderson shares some illuminating thoughts on his craft
Theatre masterclass: Kombat Kate
Not many CVs boast rapier-wielding skills and the Canadian shuffle, but they're part of the job for Kate Waters, the queen of stage combat. So, what's the first rule of fight directing?
Theatre masterclass: Rupert Goold
What happens when your leading man has a heart attack? How do you feel when the curtain goes up? And how do you deal with a one-star review? It's all part of the job, explains the Olivier-winning director
Theatre masterclass: Alistair McArthur
In our series that goes backstage to see how theatre professionals work, Alistair McArthur, head of costume at the Royal Shakespeare Company, reveals the tricks of his trade
Theatre masterclass: Sean Mathias
Sean Mathias kicks off our new series backstage with theatre professionals
