The Opportunity Is an ambitious artistic leader In Your First Few Years, Success Might Look Like: How to ApplyJob Description
This role is about shaping the artistic future of 20 Stories High in partnership with the Executive Director, Associate Director and the team. Championing new voices, developing the next generation of artists and ensuring our work continues to challenge, celebrate and reflect the communities we work alongside.
Co-creation, inclusion and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do. We want a leader who shares these values while bringing fresh artistic thinking, ambitious ideas and the confidence to lead change.
Our work is rooted in relationships, so we believe our Artistic Director should live in, or within easy daily reach of the Liverpool City Region. We want someone who will immerse themselves in the creative life of the city: building connections, discovering artists and helping shape Liverpool's cultural future.
At the heart of this role are two ambitions:
To create bold, ambitious theatre and artistic experiences with and for young people (aged 13-30) and communities (meaning excluded community groups of any age).
To champion culturally diverse, working class, d/Deaf, disabled, neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ artists, opening doors, nurturing talent and creating opportunities for the next generation of creatives and leaders.Job Requirements
Has a distinctive artistic voice and a passion for creating bold, high-quality work.
Believes in the power of theatre and creativity to inspire change.
Is curious, inventive and excited by experimentation, and new ideas.
Shares our practice and contributes to the wider cultural sector.
Can create art and opportunities that has a global appeal while honouring local roots and communities.
Creates with and for young people and communities
Has experience of making work with young people and/or communities.
Values co-creation and collaborative artistic practice.
Creates work that is inclusive, accessible and reaches diverse audiences.
Inspires and supports others
Leads creatively with generosity, integrity and care.
Builds strong, collaborative relationships with artists, partners and teams.
Champions the development of emerging artists and creative talent.
Thinks strategically
Can balance artistic ambition with organisational thinkingJob Responsibilities
Developing a distinctive artistic vision that excites audiences, inspires artists and reflects the energy and diversity of Liverpool City Region.
Working alongside the Executive Director to lead a confident, resilient and thriving organisation.
Creating exceptional, professional theatre and creative experiences in a variety of spaces including theatres, community and outreach settings.
Building meaningful pathways for emerging artists to develop and flourish within and outside of 20 Stories High.
Growing an ambitious variety of partnerships that strengthen our impact locally, nationally and internationally, for example educational institutions, commercial companies and arts organisations.
20 Stories High continuing to be one of the UK's leading young people's theatre companies.Useful Links
How to Apply
Application Deadline
10am, Monday 5th October 2026
To apply, please submit your CV, Background Information form and cover letter (no more than 2 pages) / 6–8 minutes addressed to Catrina Hewitson, Chair of the 20 Stories High board, outlining:
• Why you are interested in the position
• How your skills and experience match the job description and person specification
• How you think you could contribute to the next chapter of the company’s artistic future
• Your commitment to work for and with young people and communities
You can apply in writing, by video or audio recording.
Please send all documents to:
[email protected]