Delfont Mackintosh Theatres has completed an interactive training scheme for its technical deputy heads of department.

The development programme ran over four months and included modules on advancing communication and management skills, personal productivity and enhancing effectiveness.

The course included contributions from lawyers, theatre managers and role-plays with professional actors on how to deal with difficult situations.

The company, which operates seven West End theatres, took the step following the success of a similar initiative for heads of department in 2007 and a theatre manager development programme in 2006/2007.

Richard Johnston, chief executive of Delfont Mackintosh Theatres, said: "We recognise the need to constantly strive to raise the professionalism and effectiveness across the group both at theatre and departmental levels."

The training was delivered by Wentworth Training and Research.