Serena Fenwick programme for stage managers
The Serena Fenwick Programme
The Serena Fenwick programme is our intensive career booster that offers something a bit different to other programmes in the UK. Run in partnership with Garsington Opera, the Serena Fenwick programme is open to individuals with little or no formal stage management experience but a strong commitment to pursuing a career in the field.
“It was a life-changing experience in terms of connections and self-discovery in the industry."
– 2026 participant
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The 2027 programme
The Serena Fenwick programme for stage managers covers a diploma-style syllabus that aims to introduce you to all the basics of opera stage management in only a few months.
Delivered mainly online but with in-person sessions on topics such as marking up a rehearsal room and prop-making, the programme also offers important work experience on Garsington Opera's community production and shadowing opportunities at national companies.
By the time the programme ends in May 2027 you'll have a growing list of contacts and be well placed to start your first professional stage management job.
who can apply
Anybody is welcome to apply for the Serena Fenwick programme – there are no formal entry requirements. We're looking for someone who is dedicated to pursuing a career in opera stage management.
You should make sure you have the right visa arrangements to complete our programmes.
Key dates
- xxxx October 2026 – applications close
- xxxx – interviews in London and online
- December 2026 – places on the programme are offered
- 7-9 January 2027 – opening weekend at Garsington
- January-May 2026 – online sessions, in-person workshops and work experience
financials
To submit an application you'll need to be a member of BYO hub (£33 a year), but taking part in our programmes is completely free. Accommodation will be offered when needed for multi-day activity. There is a limited hardship fund that you can apply to while you are on the programme, with priority given to participants travelling from further afield to take part.
applications and auditions
To apply, just hit the button at the bottom of this page.
The application form contains space for a personal statement. You should use it to explain to the panel any relevant experience you've got and what you hope to get from the programme.
After the application deadline we will shortlist applicants and invite those successful ones to an interview in London – you'll be told what to expect in that email. If invited, you'll need to attend in person, although we may offer a remote option. Offers on places on our programmes will be sent out via email shortly afterwards.
faqs
All programmes in a career area (eg singing, directing, music staff) share an application form, so you can apply for all of those at the same time. You're also able to apply to programmes in multiple areas – just fill out each application form.
It is possible that you could be offered a place on the Serena Fenwick and summer programmes – the decisions on offering places take place independently. However each programme is offering something different, and you'll only be offered a place where the panel think that matches what you need.
There is no upper age limit to apply – you just need to be able to show your career would benefit from the training on offer. You must be at least 18 years old to apply for the programme.
Still have questions?
Email admin@byo.org.uk and we'll get back to you ASAP.
apply now
The deadline for applications is xxpm on xxx October 2026. Make sure you get yours in before then because we're not able to accept late applications.