In this first issue, we talk to Rob Woodley from South East London who has been freelancing for 6 years. Rob's specialisms are lighting and project management and he trained at Rose Bruford College.

What job are you working on at the moment?

Currently I'm having a well earned rest but generally I'm working on late Christmas parties, conferences, outdoor spectaculars and due to a recent chance meeting a return to some touring theatre.

What are the highs and lows of life as a freelancer?

I would say the highs are a constantly varied program of work and a potentially better income than working full time, also a greater degree of control over your own workload.
The lows I have experienced would have to be the often unsociable hours, not always having a guaranteed income or date of payment each month.

What has been your most enjoyable experience in the industry to date?

Working with some huge stars has been fun but I would have to say the experience I enjoyed most would have to be standing under the London Eye watching the fireworks on new years eve during a brief respite in two days of continuous rain.

What type of jobs appeal to you the most?

I tend to enjoy most aspects of my work but mostly the huge variety and the opportunity that gives me to meet new people and learn new skills.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a freelancer?

Just go for it, get stuck in and if you don't know something don't be afraid to ask (just don't leave it until 5 minutes before the show is due to start as this can often upset people).

What are the biggest challenges facing freelancers in the future?

With the current economic climate I would say that maintaining a degree of continuity of work has already become the biggest challenge but hopefully this will improve in 2009. Other than that I would say that finding new and interesting ways to use existing technology and the new stuff that's yet to be invented.