For women, the technical professions in cultural sector can be difficult to access. Often working behind the scenes, they remain  in the shadows of a predominantly maile industry.

The numbers speak for themselves. In 2023, only 22% of stage managers were women, compared to 78% men; just 21% of sound engineers were women, versus 79% men; and only 31% of lighting designers were women, while men made up 69% *…

Yet, women are present in these role as stage managers, scenographers, sound and lighting engineers, restorers, chief operators, camerawomen, stagehands, editors and other cultural technicians. Some are still studying, others are interns, jobs seekers, or already working in the field. Behind the scenes, they assemble exhibitions, manage productions, and bring artistic visions to life, transporting us to different worlds.

There are so many paths, so many stories, so many women whose voices deserve to be heard to inspire others. 

* Source: the Deuxième Scène report directed by La Chaufferie-Acte1 and Compagnie Écarlate.

Faced with this situation, the “Technicienne” project has been developed around three key areas with a common objective: to reduce gender discrimination in access to and the practice of these professions. 

The first is to to create a community and a safe space for open exchange.

The second is to raise the visibility of these women by promoting professional networking in a sector that largely operates through co-option. 

Finally, a third area will help students discover these professions through female representation, encouraging the development of new vocations.

We hope that this fieldwork and awareness-building will bring attention to the issue, increase the number of women technicians in the cultural sector, and improve the working conditions in which these professions are carried out.