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In this section
Theatre-Rites is recruiting for two roles: ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER and COSTUME SUPERVISOR for a new immersive production that will premiere in May 2026. You will find details of both roles below. At the end of the page is further information about the Production.
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER RECRUITMENT
RETURN TO THE FOREST is a collaboration with acclaimed South African dancer, choreographer and director Gregory Maqoma. This exciting new dance and puppetry show is a co-production with Factory International and co-commissioned by Sadler’s Wells.
The Assistant Stage Manager will be employed on an ITC/Equity contract from either Mon 30 March or Mon 6 April to Mon 11 May 2026, covering 4 or 5 weeks of rehearsal in London followed by Tech Week and opening performances in Manchester.
They will also be employed from Mon 25 – Sun 31 May 2026 to cover tech and performances at Sadler’s Wells East, London.
The weekly salary is £640 plus Holiday Pay.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
ESSENTIAL
- Previous experience as part of a Stage Management team in a professional theatre production
- Excellent organisation and time management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across production and venue teams
- Attention to detail and the ability to maintain focus and a positive attitude in fast-paced and sometimes challenging situations
- Clear and confident verbal communication
- Knowledge of lighting, sound and stage operations
DESIRABLE
- Experience of working with live radio mics during performances
- Familiarity with health and safety regulations in theatre productions
- Clean driving licence and willingness to share responsibility for van driving.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support the co-ordination and management of all aspects of rehearsals, as required
- Serve as point of contact between the creative and venue teams, ensuring clear communication and the dissemination of production updates
- Attend all required rehearsals, techs and performances
- Support all aspects of costume management as required, including: buying, fitting, laundry
- Support the set fit-up and get-out in each venue
- Oversee the backstage area during performances, managing props including any specific maintenance
- Troubleshoot and resolve any unforeseen issues that arise during rehearsals and performances
- Communicate clearly with the Production and Stage Management team, and venue technical departments
- Monitor performances and respond to live issues
- Participate in Production Meetings as required
KEY DATES
- w/c Mon 23 March Rehearsals begin in London (6 weeks)
- Sat 02 – Wed 06 May Fit up / Tech (Manchester)
- Thu 07 – Sun 10 May Approx 7 performances (Manchester)
- w/c 25 May Tech and approx 6 performances (London)
HOW TO APPLY THE ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER ROLE
Please submit your CV and a short covering letter detailing your relevant experience and why you would be a great fit for this role to: recruitment@theatre-rites.co.uk
Closing date: 10.00 Tue 03 February 2026
We welcome interest from applicants of all backgrounds and communities. During the recruitment process, we are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments individuals may require.
Please note: We are unable to provide accommodation in London, so this position will suit someone who is London-based or able to arrange accommodation independently.
COSTUME SUPERVISOR RECRUITMENT
Theatre-Rites is looking for a COSTUME SUPERVISOR to work with Costume Designer Kinnetia Isidore on a new immersive dance and puppetry production created with Choreographer Gregory Maqoma.
RETURN TO THE FOREST is a collaboration with acclaimed South African dancer, choreographer and director Gregory Maqoma. This exciting new dance and puppetry show is a co-production with Factory International and co-commissioned by Sadler’s Wells.
Key Dates:
Pre rehearsals: to participate in creative discussions and meetings as agreed with Kinnetia Isidore
Rehearsals: 6-week rehearsal period starts at Sadler’s Wells East on Mon 23rd March
Tech: Tech period starts Sun 3rd May
Opening performance: first performance Thu 7th May 6:30pm (the show will run in Manchester until Sun 10th May)
There will be 2 performances on each performance day.
- to work with Kinnetia Isidore and attend rehearsals at times to be agreed
- to supervise the costumes for a cast of 5
- 5 days in Manchester for tech/dress and first performance
- hand over to SM for laundry/maintenance after the final dress
Please apply by submitting your CV and covering letter to recruitment@theatre-rites.co.uk.In the subject line please write Costume Supervisor.The deadline for applications is 10.00 on Wed 4 February 2026Further information on the production can be found here
THE PRODUCTION
Theatre-Rites is collaborating with acclaimed South African dancer, choreographer and director Gregory Maqoma on a new immersive dance and puppetry production for families and children aged 8+.
We are working with a cast of 5 dancers and puppeteer performers, a stage management team of 3, and the following creative team:
Sue Buckmaster (Director), Gregory Maqoma (Choreographer), Jean Chan (Set Designer), Frank Moon (Composer), Kinnetia Isidore (Costume Designer), Guy Hoare (Lighting Designer),, Miguel Altunaga (Assistant Choreographer), Gareth Howells (Production Manager), Naomi Oppenheim & Alison Duddle (Puppet Makers)
Theatre-Rites is a leader in experimental theatre for children, creating over 30 theatre and immersive productions, as well as exhibitions and installations. Their work has been commissioned by Sadler’s Wells, the Unicorn, the Barbican, Manchester International Festival, the Vienna Festival, Burgtheater Vienna, Schauspielhaus Bochum, Ruhrtriennale, Salzburg Festival, and Kew Gardens.
Gregory Maqoma founded Vuyani Dance Theatre in 1999 and is internationally recognised for his collaborations with leading artists including William Kentridge, Akram Khan, and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. He choreographed Tree (Manchester International Festival, 2019) and The Global Playground (Theatre-Rites, 2021).