Name: David Searle
Job: Theatre Technician - Bradford Theatres

"Playing an upright piano as six of us took it through the pedestrian subway in the city centre certainly made people look twice!"

David Searle, your Question and Answer session starts now...

How did you get into the job?

I started doing lighting at sixth form college and went on to light the gigs at university. Six months on a scheme for out of work actors and technicians led to a placement with Bradford Theatres and then a place on the casual crew as an electrician. Five years later I got the post of Deputy Chief Electrician which is now being upgraded to Stage and Electrics Manager.

What is the job about?

I deal with everything electrical to do with the performances in Bradford theatres. From making sure all the lights in the public areas are working, to designing, installing and operating lighting and sound rigs for the shows themselves. I also liaise with the visiting companies to ensure they get the right number of staff, with the right skills at the correct times to put the shows on.

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The best thing is feeling the buzz from the audience and performers when everything goes well.

The worst is having to deal with situations where people are not satisfied - a rare occurrence.

Have you had any embarrassing moments or have you got any funny stories tell?

We often move things between the Alhambra Theatre and St Georges Hall by pushing them across town. A thirty foot high ladder on wheels got some funny looks! Also playing an upright piano as six of us took it through the pedestrian subway in the city centre certainly made people look twice!

If you weren't doing this job what would you be doing?

Possibly still teaching, which I did for a while when I was on the casual crew.

Have you got any heroes in your field of work?

Richard Pilbrow just about invented theatre lighting as we know it so he must be one. Also
Howard Eaton, he makes some ingenious little gizmos for all kinds of theatrical stuff.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your field?

Go to college to learn about the industry and get involved with your local theatre even on a voluntary basis to find out what it's really like.