Deputy Head of Sound - Disney's Hercules, London

UK Theatre Association; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious theatre organization is seeking a Deputy Head of Sound to join the Sound department for Disney's Hercules in London's West End. The role involves assisting the Head of Sound, operating sound equipment during performances, and ensuring communication across departments. Ideal candidates will have experience in large-scale productions, technical sound knowledge, and strong problem-solving skills. This fixed-term position offers an exciting opportunity within a vibrant theatre environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar role within a large-scale musical production.
• Strong understanding of professional sound systems and equipment.
• Able to work at height comfortably.
• Demonstrates calmness in high-pressure situations.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head of Sound with communication across teams.
• Operate the sound desk and maintain sound design.
• Oversee daily setup of sound equipment.
• Take an active role in teaching new staff.

Skills

Sound equipment operation

Team collaboration

Problem-solving under pressure

Health & Safety knowledge

Job description

As Deputy Head of Sound, you'll assist the sound department and report to the Head of Sound and Production Manager. Your focus will be on overseeing the setup, operation, and maintenance of all sound equipment and systems, ensuring the smooth running of rehearsals and performances.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head of Sound, liaising between the Company Manager, Technical departments, Resident Creative Team, Production and General Management Teams and local venue staff to ensure the smooth running of all rehearsals and performances.
• Assist the Head of Sound, communicating promptly with the Company, Production, General Management and the Resident Creative Team on any day-to-day changes that might impact the running of the Production.
• Operate the sound desk for performances, maintaining and replicating the show's sound design to the highest standard.
• Oversee daily setup, rig checks, and clear communication within the sound department.
• Maintain and repair all sound equipment, ensuring systems are show-ready at all times.
• Create and maintain accurate paperwork and ensure clear information across departments.
• Develop a thorough knowledge of all tracks and plots within the Sound Department to provide cover during holidays or absences.
• Take an active role in teaching new members of staff and work closely with theatre staff to ensure the smooth running of the production.
• Ensure an awareness of understudy and swing performances ahead of each show and make necessary adjustments.
• Report and feedback show and staff related issues in a timely manner.
• Handle any problems that occur during performances quickly and calmly.
• Attend technical, dress, and understudy rehearsals as needed.
• Attend weekly head of department meetings in the absence of the Head of Department.
• Liaise with Company, Stage, Technical, Creative, Production, and General Management teams, as well as venue staff, to maintain coordination and communication.

We are seeking a passionate and motivated individual to join the Sound department for Disney's Hercules in London's West End on a fixed-term basis.

Qualifications

• Background: Experience in a similar role within a large-scale musical production, working alongside an international cast, is highly desirable.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of setting up, maintaining, and operating professional sound systems and equipment.
• Working at Height: Comfortable with working at height as part of daily responsibilities.
• Team Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster positive working relationships across departments.
• Problem‑Solving: Excellent initiative and practical problem‑solving skills, particularly in high‑pressure backstage situations.
• Calm Under Pressure: Able to handle issues that arise during performances with focus, professionalism, and composure.
• Health & Safety: Solid understanding of health and safety legislation relevant to the role, including LOLER, PUWER, and Working at Height regulations.
• Proven ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
• Highly effective team player with strong collaboration skills.
• Capable of following instructions and adhering to department protocols.
• Motivated to learn new skills and committed to upholding the quality of a major production.
• Demonstrates discretion and professionalism when working closely with others.
• Well‑organised and detail‑oriented in all aspects of work.