Who are you?
I’m Corinne – a Sydney-based freelance Lighting Programmer for theatre and reality TV. You will find me out at the production desk behind a myriad of screens, with my blanket over my lap in protest of over-enthusiastic air conditioning, and am almost always in activewear, because = comfort.
Describe the work you do
In theatre, I’m an ETC Eos programmer – both for new productions and transferring existing shows to other cities, for many wonderful companies both in Sydney and interstate. In TV, I’m an MA programmer and Gaffer and have lit shows such as Lego Masters, Shark Tank, Beauty And The Geek and Married At First Sight.
What led you to your current work?
As a teenager, I enjoyed all aspects of the performing arts, both onstage and off. I was asked to look after the lighting for a school play, and, well, here I still am 18 years later!! I went to university (QUT in Brisbane) straight out of school and worked my way up the ranks after that – from Lighting Crew through to Programmer and Head/Production Electrician, and every other job in between.
What are you working on now or about to start work on?
At the moment I’m wrapping up programming a string of new productions for Sydney Theatre Company – On The Beach, Constellations and The Importance Of Being Earnest. Then, off to program a quick transfer, and then it’s back to TV for the rest of the year to light and program a new reality show. And then… Christmas… and maybe some sleep.
What are the good things about your job?
This job is packed full of so many beautiful little moments. The rewarding feeling of watching the first episode of a TV show you worked on, and it looks BANGING. Turning up on the first day of a new show, to realise you’ll be working with an old friend you haven’t worked with in 10 years. The satisfaction of making THE most glorious and functional Magic Sheet (programmers IYKYK). Inviting your partner to Opening Night, to finally share with them the reason why you haven’t been home in a couple of weeks. Finding your new favourite coffee shop, right next to the stage door, in a new city while on tour. There are honestly so many.
What are the worst things about your job?
The hours can be a real challenge – I won’t sugarcoat it. Leaving the house at 7am and getting home at midnight, 6 days a week, is commonplace. Your sleep and your health (both physically and mentally) can definitely suffer as a result, not to mention missing weddings, birthdays, and dinners out with friends on the regular… it can take its toll.
What, so far, has been your career highlight?
In 2012, I was working as the Senior Lighting Technician at the Playhouse Theatre QPAC in Brisbane – the city I had grown up in. This particular year, we got a whole host of THE most wonderful shows tour in from Europe. This really opened my eyes to what more was out there – a career (and life) bigger than this venue, in this city, in this country. A few months later, I quit my job and moved to London solo, and ended up working for some iconic companies such as Sadler’s Wells, The Royal Opera House, The Edinburgh Fringe Festival and The Young Vic. Building a career again from scratch was, and still is, one of the things I’m most proud of accomplishing – both personally and professionally.
What is the most blatant example of sexism you have encountered at work?
Like many women in our industry, I’ve seen and heard some DOOZIES. Thankfully, since becoming freelance five years ago, I have the power to pick and choose who I work with so I come across it less these days. But the casual day-to-day stuff has always irked me. You know – a question that is yours to answer being directed to the nearest male colleague instead. Local crew calling you “sweetheart” on tour, rather than bothering to learn your name. Using the term “the boys” when referring to the (gender diverse) crew as a whole. Someone mansplaining a really basic part of your job to you, because of some assumed lack of experience you emit. These often aren’t done or said by malicious people per se – but it does suggest that these underlying biases still linger.
What advice would you give to any woman thinking of a career in the entertainment industry?
You don’t need to fit anybody’s predetermined mould of what a “technician” or a “programmer” looks or acts like.
Be a kind, respectful, and easy person to spend 15 hours a day with – when looking for work that’s half the battle.
Oh, and try and get some sunshine on your lunch break.
What is your career goal?
Becoming a solidly-booked freelance programmer was something I had always aspired to be. I’m so grateful and proud I have achieved it, and I’m happy being where I am for now. I’m not sure what’s next, but it will be fun finding out.
