Opportunities

JOB DESCRIPTION

We are collaborating with acclaimed South African dancer, choreographer and director Gregory Maqoma on an immersive dance puppetry production.

The Technical Stage Manager will be employed on an ITC/Equity contract from Mon 13 April – Mon 11 May 2026, covering 3 weeks of rehearsals 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 in London.

The weekly salary is £675 plus Holiday Pay. This includes a base weekly rate of £655 plus £20 for up to 1 hour of (otherwise unpaid) overtime per week. Overtime beyond this should not normally be required, but if worked, it will be paid as per contract.

The successful candidate will have at least 2 years’ experience as a Technical Stage Manager, be confident operating QLab, hold a clean driving licence, and be willing to share responsibility for van driving. Experience with ETC or MA lighting desks would be useful but not essential.

KEY DATES

• w/c 23 March 2026 – Rehearsals begin in London (6 weeks)

• Sat 2 – Wed 6 May 2026 – Fit up / Tech (Manchester)

• Thurs 7 – Sun 10 May 2026 – Performances (Manchester)

• w/c 25 May 2026 – Tech and approx. 6 performances (London)

JOB REQUIREMENTS

The Technical Stage Manager will:

• service rehearsals, leading on sound and lighting requirements in the rehearsal room

• liaise with the CSM to ensure venues are fully prepared in terms of sound and lighting

• operate sound (via QLab) and lighting desk during performances

• assist with set fit-up and get-out in each venue

• share van driving responsibilities with the CSM

• support the CSM and Production Manager in ensuring venues receive all relevant technical information in good time

• attend weekly company meetings with the Project Manager, Stage Management team and cast

• maintain high standards of health & safety, implementing actions from Risk Assessments as required

• uphold Theatre-Rites’ policies, including Environmental and Equal Opportunities

KEY ATTRIBUTES

• At least 2 years’ professional experience in a technical stage management role

• Confident in operating sound and lighting, with problem-solving skills

• Experience operating multi-space shows via comms, either without direct sightlines or using CCTV monitors

• Experience working in immersive, site-specific, or non-traditional spaces

• Excellent organisational, time-management, and communication skills

• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability

• Calm and confident under pressure

• Flexible, confident, and responsive approach to working

• Confident supporting get-ins and get-outs

COMPANY

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).

HOW TO APPLY

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: john@theatre-rites.co.uk

Closing date:  Mon 15 Sep 2025 by 23:55

We welcome applications from 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.