#12JobsOfTheatre – Lorna O’Connell, Head of Events & Visitor Services
Welcome to #12JobsofTheatre.
Over 12 days in December we’ll be telling you about 12 different jobs at the Lyric to give you an insight into the varied and vital jobs that contribute to the work we make.
Each of the wonderful people that are currently in those positions have shared how they got there and we hope it will be helpful to those thinking about pursuing a career in the arts.
Next up is Lorna O’Connell, our Head of Events & Visitor Services.
- In one sentence, can you explain what your job is?
I manage the hire of our space and facilities to external clients/groups to generate income for the charity, and the schedule of activity across all our rooms at the Lyric, and I oversee the Visitor Services Team who guide and take care of our audiences and visitors.
- What made you want to work in theatre and where did you start?
I trained as a dancer and love live performances, so I have always worked in theatres/arts venues. My first job was as an Operations Coordinator for a Dance organisation in SE London, which had a beautiful art deco theatre and programmed lots of live events working with professional and community dancers.
- What is your top recommendation for someone who wants to be a Head of Events & Visitor Services
Experience is key! You need to get involved in as many opportunities as you can, learn how to deal with different types of people and to understand how things work ‘behind the scenes’. Also, when things get bumpy, remember that you’re not dealing with life and death!
- What is your favourite production at the Lyric that you have worked on and why?
Leave to Remain, but I didn’t work on it… I actually came to watch it just before I started my job at the Lyric. I remember walking home after the press night, buzzing from the show and after meeting some of my new colleagues, and excited for the future.