By Pauline Stewart
Founded by Susan French, affectionately known as Frenchie, CREW GAL emerged from a vivid vision sparked by none other than Prince’s Purple Rain. “I decided to leave my job and create something where women and minorities could thrive,” Frenchie recalls, her eyes sparkling with determination.
Amidst an industry frozen in time by COVID, Frenchie saw an opportunity to shake things up. “Twenty years of stage crew work, and nothing had changed,” she laments. “It was time to say yes to new beginnings.”
With government backing, CREW GAL became a beacon of change, training individuals regardless of background or employment status. “We accessed arenas, collaborated with other companies, but some just didn’t get our vibe,” Frenchie shrugs. “So we invited them onto our stage—where harassment and discrimination take a back seat.”
Enter CREW GAL, gliding through arenas like a guardian angel. “Checking on all of their amazing crew, ensuring everyone feels like part of the family,” Frenchie beams proudly. “Equal treatment, welfare perks, and staff bathrooms cleaner than a debut album.”
Global domination? It’s in the cards for CREW GAL, whose headquarters have boomed in just two short years. “From battling old-school attitudes to empowering grassroots gigs,” Frenchie laughs, “we’re raising the curtain on childcare and job equality.”
With 200 staff members, CREW GAL is more than a crew—it’s a celebration of diversity and mutual respect. “Our worst day? Coordinating crews from weddings to Glastonbury,” Frenchie chuckles, eyes twinkling like disco balls. “We juggle it all—kids, dogs, and an office that runs on parent power.”
All of us are fiercely protective of quality time spent with family and this underscores CREW GAL’s mission as does equality and a stigma-free stage. “Everyone’s got the same gig here,” Frenchie affirms. We are the beat behind our success.”
“Flexi-hours and low sick leave? What’s not to love?!” says Ash -this is CREW GAL’s groove. “We read tarot for decisions,” Frenchie admits with a grin. “It’s all about setting a new rhythm for future generations.”
High schools are catching their vibe too, with rave reviews from Valley Gardens High and collaborations with pros. Watch this space for further announcements with international artists and production teams
“We’re shouting from the rooftops: ‘You can do this!'” Frenchie declares.
In the end, CREW GAL isn’t just a crew—it’s a purple dream come to life, breaking down barriers and spinning a new era of live events. “So, grab a backstage pass,” Frenchie invites with a wink, “and join us in the spotlight, where every beat counts and everyone’s part of the band.”
