Professor Wendy Gadian

Ladies of Stave: making a future for women in musical theatre

Professor Wendy Gadian, a distinguished musical director, arranger, and composer, has made significant contributions to the world of musical theatre. As the Course Leader for the BA (Hons) Acting Musical Theatre at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, she has shaped the education and careers of aspiring performers. Let’s delve into her remarkable journey and the vital initiative she co-founded: Ladies of the Stave.

Professor Wendy Gadian: A Musical Trailblazer

Wendy Gadian’s musical journey began at prestigious institutions such as Chetham’s School of Music, the University of Reading (where she received the Heather Scholarship for Performance), and the Royal Northern College of Music (where she was awarded the postgraduate Dalzel Maclaren Scholarship). Her talent as a musical director and arranger led her to a successful career spanning musical theater, opera, film, and television. She even reached the semi-finals of the International Concert Artists Guild Competition in New York in 1984.

Before joining Central, Wendy had an impressive track record, including composing for productions like A Chorus Line(1997) and the BBC series Tipping the Velvet (2005). Her expertise extends to curriculum design, and she has advised institutions worldwide on musical theater programs.

Ladies of the Stave: Empowering Female Musical Directors

In 2017, Wendy co-founded Ladies of the Stave, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing gender disparities in the musical theatre industry.

Wendy identified a pressing issue in musical theatre—an underrepresentation of women in key roles, particularly as musical directors and pit musicians.

“It struck me that there’s this incredible pool of talent among women that wasn’t being tapped into. I knew something needed to change,” 

Wendy once explained in an interview which sparked STAVE, the initiative to bridge the gender gap in the world of musical theatre.

STAVE—Strategic Training for Artists in Vital Equity—was born from Wendy’s passion to create opportunities for women and dismantle the barriers holding them back. Setting it up wasn’t without its challenges. Wendy worked tirelessly to gather support from industry leaders, craft training programs, and establish a mentorship network that would empower women to step confidently into leadership roles.

“It was a labour of love,” she said. “The industry needed a platform where women’s voices could be heard and their talents recognised.”

Here’s why it was set up:

1. Representation Matters: Women have historically been underrepresented in leadership roles within musical theatre. Ladies of the Stave seeks to change this by providing professional mentoring, networking opportunities, and skills workshops specifically for female-identifying musical directors.

2. Breaking Barriers: Wendy and her co-founders recognised the need to break down barriers that hinder women’s progress. By fostering a supportive community, Ladies of the Stave encourages women to pursue and thrive in their careers.

3. Championing Talent: The initiative celebrates the talent and expertise of female musical directors. It aims to amplify their voices, advocate for equal opportunities, and challenge the status quo.

Challenges Faced by Women in Musical Theater

While Wendy Gadian’s work with Ladies of the Stave is commendable, it underscores the persistent challenges women encounter in the industry:

1. Gender Imbalance: Reports reveal that women remain significantly underrepresented in key positions. For instance, the Cultural Renewal Taskforce, responsible for supporting the culture sector during the pandemic, lacks female leadership. Only three women serve on the entire taskforce.

2. Career Sustainability: Freelance roles dominate the theater landscape, making it challenging for women to sustain careers while balancing family responsibilities. The absence of maternity leave and pensions exacerbates this issue.

3. Appearance Pressures: Female performers often face pressure to conform to specific appearance standards. Equity found that 72% of female performers felt compelled to “look a particular way” to secure work, compared to 28% of male performers.

4. Inappropriate Behaviour: Instances of inappropriate physical intimacy, bullying, and intimidation persist. Female directors and musical directors encounter these challenges, affecting their professional growth.

5. Representation Behind the Scenes: Only 17% of behind-the-scenes talent on Broadway are women. This lack of representation affects decision-making, creative processes, and overall industry dynamics.
   

In conclusion, Professor Wendy Gadian’s commitment to empowering women in musical theatre through >Ladies of the Stave< is a crucial step toward a more equitable and inclusive industry. However, systemic changes are needed to dismantle barriers and create a level playing field for all talented individuals, regardless of gender.

Finding Your Path in Musical Theatre:

A Guide for Women

Musical theatre is a vibrant and dynamic field brimming with opportunities, and there’s no better time for women to make their mark. Whether you dream of dazzling audiences on stage, orchestrating magic behind the scenes, or leading as a musical director, the theatre world is ready for your talent and vision. Here’s how you can explore a career in musical theatre:

1. Education and Training

Investing in education is often the first step. Many prestigious schools, such as the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama or Guildhall, offer specialized courses in musical theatre. These programs provide comprehensive training in performance, vocal techniques, music theory, and more. Don’t forget workshops, masterclasses, and summer schools—they’re fantastic ways to refine your skills and make industry connections.

2. Networking and Mentorship

Theatre is as much about connections as it is about talent. Attend theatre festivals, join local performance groups, and connect with industry professionals. Initiatives like Wendy Gadian’s STAVE not only provide training but also create mentorship opportunities that help you navigate the industry with confidence.

3. Explore Various Roles

Theatre isn’t limited to just acting or singing. Consider roles like choreographer, producer, musical director, or pit musician. Many women are redefining what leadership looks like in theatre—why not join them?

4. Seek Out Resources

Look for companies, scholarships, and foundations that support women in the arts. For instance, the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation supports diversity and access, making it a valuable resource for aspiring talents.

5. Build Your Experience

Experience is key! Join community theatre groups, perform in school productions, or assist backstage. Every opportunity helps you learn the ropes and build a portfolio that stands out.

The world of musical theatre is evolving, with more and more women taking center stage—both literally and figuratively. It’s a career path filled with creativity, passion, and impact. So, embrace your dreams and dive into the world of musical theatre—you’re bound to leave your audience, and the industry, applauding!