Theatre’s money lessons
Making money go a long way is an essential part of life in the arts. Rob Stock talks to James Wilson.
James Wilson cut his teeth as a director on the golden stage in London. Now, he manages Auckland’s vibrant Q Theatre in the heart of the city’s bustling CBD.
Like many other denizens of the central city, he’s financially savvy.
But unlike the ‘‘suits’’ in the glass towers around him, Wilson learnt his money smarts from being a director rather than from a commerce degree, because in theatre money is often tight, so a little has to go a long way.
How financially savvy are you?
The performing arts have taught me the importance of building a strong base of support, of diversifying revenue sources and striving to grow new investment through creating shared value. It took many people, many years, with lots of blood, sweat and tears to bring the Q Theatre to life. It’s my job to care for the investment that was made through fundraising and sponsorship, and to ensure that we grow the business.
What was your first paid work?
My first ever part-time job was as a sandwich-maker for an office catering firm with the slightly exaggerated name ‘‘Utterly Scrumptious’’. Making curried-egg sandwiches first thing in the morning was an eye-opener to the world of work.
How did your upbringing shape your attitude to money?
My parents worked very hard to make sure my brother and I were supported to follow our dreams. I think this taught me a lot about what can be achieved when you instil people with confidence and back them 100 per cent.
Did you think about your financial future when going into the arts?
As a wide-eyed young drama student, money was certainly not the primary driver in my head as I set out to learn my craft. Having trained as a theatre director in London, I entered a profession where working for free to gain experience was the norm. I worked hard to secure a bursary as a trainee director, and had to learn to balance ambition with patience, understanding that working my way up through the ranks was the key to building confidence and experience.
Tell us about personal finances and the arts?
Auckland has a fantastic food and drink scene, an eclectic and vibrant arts and entertainment calendar, and some fantastic public spaces that really celebrate our city, but the idea of being able to afford to buy a house and live near where I work seems to get less and less possible each week. We need to make sure the workers who give the city life can afford to call it home.
Do you have any thoughts about student loans and arts degrees?
Investing in study and learning has made a fundamental difference to my life, and I hate to think of how many people have had to park their potential for fear of taking on debt through tertiary study.
Investing in study and learning has made a fundamental difference to my life.
Tell us your best investment decision ever?
In 2013 I spent a year on the Leadership New Zealand programme. I met people from an amazing range of communities, industries and organisations. The challenge was an investment that will benefit me for years to come.