Female representation in technical roles within the performing arts industry

The goal of this study was to highlight measures taken to address female representation in technical roles within a performing arts entity, and to identify the gaps around resolving female underrepresentation in technical roles. To conceptualise the research phenomenon and examine the findings in this study, feminist theory was applied. A qualitative research approach was used to collect data for the study. The researchers gathered qualitative data from 17 participants of a performing arts entity in the Western Cape, South Africa using semi-structured interview questionnaires. The analysis of the qualitative data was conducted using thematic analysis. The research findings indicated that there was an unequal representation of females in technical roles, thus stifling the successful empowerment of women within the entity. The barriers to female representation as found by the study included career trajectory and growth. Leadership was viewed to be important when it came to drive the required change. Furthermore, COVID-19 impacted female representation, as vacant posts could no longer be filled. However, some lessons could be learnt from the pandemic that would create an environment conducive for female participation in the workplace, enabling the entity to attract and retain them.