For Summer 2026, we're transforming The Vache estate into a world of magic and transformation with The Tempest, Shakespeare's swansong masterpiece, reimagined through the lens of Baroque music and contemporary sound design. We'll stage four full-scale performances and one Relaxed/Abridged performance across two weekends: 29/30 August and 5/6 September 2026. Alongside our headline production, the festival also includes a late-night Jazz Night, Water Music and Splash! a family-friendly theatrical adaptation featuring extracts of Shakespeare. We're looking for two energetic, organised and proactive production assistants. This role is ideal for anyone looking to build experience in live arts, festival operations, theatre production or event management. You'll be at the heart of the action helping us make sure artists, crew and audiences all have a safe and unforgettable experience. Key Info: Positive, proactive and ready to muck in Helping prepare the site for rehearsals and performances Please apply using the formJob Summary
Job Description
Expect a rich fusion of spoken drama, lute songs, instrumental storm music and immersive soundscapes. Drawing on music by Henry Purcell, Matthew Locke, and other European composers of the period, this is Shakespeare as you've never experienced it before.
Performances will take place in our specially built big-top tent, erected in the grounds of the Vache for the festival.
Fee: Up to £1,404 per assistant (based on approx. 104 hours at £13.50 per hour, including evening and weekend work. Unpaid lunch breaks apply.)
Contract Type: Freelance / Independent Contractor
Location: The Vache, Vache Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire HP8 4SD
Working Days Required:
20, 21,22, 24, 25, 26, 27 August - Site familiarisation / Early prep and Rehearsals
28, 29, 30 August - First performance weekend of The Tempest, Jazz event (28th)
4, 5, 6, 7 September - Second performance weekend of The Tempest, Water Music (4th), Splash! (6th) and pack down
Hours: Approx 4-12 hours per day, including evenings and weekends.Job Requirements
Calm under pressure and able to juggle multiple tasks
A clear and reliable communicator (especially when things get busy)
Interested in theatre, music, live events or arts production
Comfortable working outdoors and taking on physical tasks
Supportive of VB's mission to make the arts more inclusive and accessible
UK driving licence holders (very important!)
Preferably with access to their own car (petrol expenses will be covered for production-related travel)
Ability to read music (nice to have, but not required)
Health & safety training (nice to have, but not required)Job Responsibilities
Setting up audience areas, outdoor installations and activity zones
Moving and setting up furniture, marquees, props and technical kit
Supporting the Stage Manager and production team during rehearsals and shows
Operating show cues (surtitles, sound or effects)
Assisting with artist and crew transport (local train station pickups/drop-offs)
Supporting communication between artists, crew, volunteers and audiences
Ensuring health and safety measures are followed at all timesUseful Links
How to Apply