Creative Teams FAQs
How do I become a member of a creative team for a SATCo production?
For each season, SATCo puts out a call for creatives or, sometimes, for specific roles in productions. These calls are usually posted to Facebook and Instagram (@uvicsatco). If you would like to assist or shadow a position on a show, you can also respond to these calls or email us at [email protected].
How are creative team members selected?
Once a season has been selected by the SATCo board, the playwrights each choose a director from the applicants. The director is then responsible for choosing their creative team for a show, with approval from the board. Directors (or when applicable, playwrights) may ask to interview you or get an idea of what sort of experience you have, as well as the vision you have in mind for the show. This depends on each director’s personal method of working and will vary from show to show. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, you can reach out to SATCo, and we are happy to help sort things out.
What is the time commitment for someone on a creative team?
The time commitment associated with a given role on a creative team can vary widely. Generally speaking, however, during rehearsals and production, the time investment for directors, designers, and stage managers can be intensive. You can expect anywhere from 20 to 80 hours of work per show, depending on the role. Schedules are set by directors and stage management, and deadlines to be met are set by our Technical Director or any other appropriate member of the SATCo board in coordination with creative teams. Timelines are often short, with the entire process taking 2-4 weeks in many cases.
Can I do the same role twice during the same SATCo season?
Generally speaking, no. SATCo aims to create opportunities for as many students as possible to work on our shows. For this reason, as well as ensuring creative team members are not overworked on top of their academic and other commitments, SATCo typically allows an artist to work on one role per season. However, not all roles get filled and occasionally people will do the same role twice in a season.
Can I apply for a position even if I’ve never done it before?
SATCo is all about learning in a professional environment, and we love allowing people to try new positions that they are curious to try out. With that said, in your application we will ask you for any relevant experience you may have, such as taking a class or shadowing others in the position previously. This may also be something directors ask you about while assembling a creative team.
With the fast pace of SATCo seasons, it is often difficult to learn entirely new skills within the timeline of the production. If you are curious about trying out a job you’ve never done before, assisting or shadowing a member of a creative team can be an excellent way to build up some experience before taking on the role yourself. But yes, SATCo is the perfect place to broaden your experiences outside of your academic focus or to hone those skills learned in class in a practical, hands-on way.