The saying it’s not what you know but who you know is one that is often heard in the film industry but this isn’t true for Suffolk’s Abigail Radwell. Completing a Set Ready Training Course kick started her career.
Set Ready, is a free course aimed at training the next generation of location marshals. The two day course focuses on the Film and TV industry in general and gives participants the skills they need to feel confident for their first day on set.
After finishing the course we helped Abigail to secure her first on-set role as a Location Marshal on Project Hail Mary (2026). This year’s biggest film to date shot key scenes at Bentwaters Parks in East Suffolk and Abigail had two weeks work on the production.
That initial opportunity laid the foundation for everything that followed.
Once Abigail started work she quickly discovered that some of her existing skills were more relevant than she expected. Her background helped her adapt quickly to the fast-paced, nature of working in Locations.
“Any hospitality work is directly transferable to a Location Marshal role. If you’re good at mediating and speaking to new people you are already halfway there.”
Set Ready Training had given her the foundation she needed to succeed but it was her willingness to learn that led to her continued success. Abigail reflects:
“Don’t be afraid of asking questions… everyone in the Locations Department knew it was my first time and were more than willing to explain things again or offer up advice.”
Thanks to Set Ready she was able to navigate the new environment which involved lots of new lingo and lots of networking. Her top tips for success:
“Find out where the Honeywagon (toilet) is stationed… even if it’s just to help others.”
“Don’t limit yourself to talking to just your department… it is also just a great way to learn.”
“Have fun. Being on a film set is a pretty cool place to be.”
Since that first role on Project Hail Mary, Abigail has gone on to work across an impressive range of productions, steadily building her CV and reputation within the industry.
Her credits now include:
Under the Tree (Music Video) – Marshal
Sessions – AD Runner
The Thomas Crown Affair – Marshal
The Agency Season 2 – Marshal
The Witcher Season 4 – Marshal
House of the Dragon Season 4 – Marshal
Spiderman: Brand New Day – Key Marshal
Rings of Power – Studio Marshal
Ted Lasso Season 4 – Marshal
Hawksmoor – Key Marshal
This progression—from first-time trainee to Key Marshal roles on major productions—demonstrates how quickly opportunities can grow if you have the right attitude and Abigail’s journey is a powerful example of how the right training, combined with curiosity and enthusiasm, can open doors in a competitive industry.
We look forward to seeing where her career progresses!