Description
To be responsible for achieving and maintaining a high standard of operational efficiency in the Royal & Derngate’s Workshop Department, that physical aspects of productions are constructed safely, on time and to the designer’s brief and that the workshop area is in a safe and professional state.
Are you ready to take centre stage behind the scenes? As Head of Workshop, you'll lead the way in transforming bold theatrical visions into breathtaking realities. From crafting stunning sets and problem-solving with designers, to steering budgets and inspiring a skilled team, this is your chance to make a real creative impact.
We're looking for a dynamic maker and leader - someone who thrives on collaboration, loves a challenge, and has the technical expertise to deliver excellence every time. At Royal & Derngate, no two productions are the same, and your creativity, craftsmanship, and leadership will be at the heart of our storytelling magic.
If you're passionate about theatre, thrive under pressure, and want to see your work light up the stage - this is the role for you.
Essential Experience:
- Proven experience at Head of Department level in a producing theatre and/or in a Workshop
- Proven experience in a range of production styles and construction techniques
- Proven experience of controlling large budgets
Essential Knowledge/Qualifications:
- Design techniques
- Financial systems
- Theatre Green Book
- Health & Safety At Work Act 1974 and other legislative requirements
Essential Skills/Abilities:
- Able to plan work schedules effectively
- Able to work creatively
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Good communication skills
- Staff deployment
- Numerate and IT literate
- Staff Training and Development skills
Desirable Experience:
- Working within a venue with large and active community engagement programme
- Producing theatre company, and/or Repertory theatre system
Desirable Knowledge/Qualifications:
- An understanding of subsidised /commercial theatre.
- First Aid at Work certificate
- IOSH Managing Safely
- Driving Licence
- To manage the team and resources allocated to the workshop efficiently.
- To manage the construction of all scenery and related items to the satisfaction of the Production Manager and Designer for Royal & Derngate (R&D) productions and co-productions.
- To be the first point of contact for designers with regard to all aspects of scenery. Creating a positive and welcoming dialogue, providing creative solutions to design problems.
- To construct all wood-working and metal fabrication elements of a set, including some prop-making where necessary.
- To advise the Head of Production of estimated set material and build costs as required, and to ensure that the Workshop elements of production budgets are adhered to, and expenditure records are accurately maintained.
- In conjunction with the Head of Production, Production Manager and Stage Department, to play a leading role in fitting-up in-house productions.
- For the full job description, please see our website.
Please follow the link on our website and submit a covering letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) stating your relevant experience, knowledge, and skills for this role along with your CV.