Decline of drama at school prompts UK training drive for backstage work

The National Theatre is worried about a shortage of skills from costume designers, to set creators, to computer technicians

The decline of drama as a school subject has had a serious knock-on effect on the live entertainment business. While it is harder now for a budding star to imagine a stage career, the more immediate impact is on theatres' skills and craft departments.

The problem is a top priority for Indhu Rubasingham, two weeks into her high-profile job as artistic director at National Theatre. Now she and the NT's executive director, Kate Varah, are announcing a move to boost the supply of skilled workers across the country, from costume designers and makers to set creators and computer technicians.