Theatre Maker

Theatre Maker

Hop, Skip and a Jump Closing date: Mon, 24 Aug 2026

Artform: Theatre
Role: Creative
Contract: Temporary
North West

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 "> published -

Job Summary

I'm looking for a North West based Theatre Maker to join me as a creative collaborator on the R&D of Bronte Appleby's new play Vicarage Kid, supported by Arts Council England.

Job Description

Vicarage Kid began with a simple question.

I grew up with a mum who was a vicar and a dad who was an atheist. As I've got older, and started thinking about parenthood myself, I've realised I don't really know what I believe.

Add in a very unusual vicarage, a childhood full of memorable experiences and the communities that shaped who I became - and I found myself wanting to ask bigger questions about home, faith and the stories we inherit.

This R&D will use interviews, verbatim material and creative exploration to investigate themes including:
childhood and how it shapes adulthood
parenthood and the decision to become a parent
religion, faith and spirituality
family rituals and traditions
motherhood and work/life balance
mental and physical health
belonging, community and home

Rather than beginning with a finished script, I'm starting with questions. I'm looking for someone excited by that uncertainty and interested in discovering the work together.

The expectation is that the questions, conversations and creative exploration during the R&D will develop into material that this role will help shape and direct. The starting point is my own story but then hearing from other people to develop the piece further. The process will culminate in a small sharing of the work created.

Fee
£2,200 (£200 per day 11 days)

The role includes:
2 days supporting the organisation and reflection of verbatim interviews with the lead artist
1 flexible day of script feedback and dramaturgical collaboration
8 R&D days, including a work-in-progress sharing

R&D dates at Manchester location
29-30 October 2026
5-6 November 2026
19-20 November 2026
26-27 November 2026

Interviews
Week commencing 14 September 2026

Job Requirements

You might be a director, dramaturg or theatre maker: or a combination of all three.

Ideally, you'll have experience of some of the following:
- Directing new work
- Dramaturgy or script development
- Devising or collaborative theatre making
- Verbatim theatre or interview-based performance

- Enjoys genuine collaboration
- Can confidently hold a rehearsal room
- Listens with care and curiosity
- Feels comfortable facilitating conversations around sensitive subjects including infertility, mental health, grief and postnatal depression
- Understands how to tell nuanced stories with a trauma informed approach, bringing light and shade appropriately
- Has their own perspective on these themes and isn't afraid to challenge ideas or offer a different point of view

Job Responsibilities

- Work closely with the Lead Artist to shape the artistic direction of Vicarage Kid throughout the R&D process.
- Support the organisation of verbatim interviews and reflect on interview material to identify themes, stories and theatrical potential.
- Collaborate with the Lead Artist to transform verbatim material and other storytelling devices into a compelling theatrical response.
- Act as dramaturg throughout the R&D, offering script feedback, creative challenge and structural insight as ideas develop.
- Direct the development of material created during the R&D, helping to facilitate rehearsals and shape performances.
- Work collaboratively with the composer, movement director and Lead Artist to develop an integrated, multidisciplinary piece of theatre.
- Help create and maintain a rehearsal room that is collaborative, inclusive and supportive
- Support the preparation and delivery of a work-in-progress sharing at the conclusion of the R&D.

Job Overview

  • Job Title: Theatre Maker
  • Salary: Under £10K
  • Hours: Part time
  • Artform: Theatre
  • Role: Creative
  • Contract: Temporary
  • Closing date: Mon, 24 Aug 2026
  • Location:
    North West

How to Apply

To apply please send a statement of interest and CV to [email protected] by Monday 24th August at 10am GMT