Lead Theatre Production Manager

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid package

Professional development workshops

On-site role in Durban

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Theatre Production Manager for a prestigious theatre company in Durban. You will oversee all technical and logistical aspects of stage productions, from conception to performance, while leading budgets, schedules, and crews.

The role requires 8+ years in theatre production management, strong leadership, and a deep understanding of set design, lighting, sound, and safety. This is a permanent on-site position in Durban with collaboration across directors and

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Theatre Production, Stage Management, or related field; extensive experience may substitute.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive theatre production management experience.
• Expertise in all facets of theatrical production, including set design, lighting, sound, and stagecraft.
• Strong financial acumen with budgeting and cost control for theatrical productions.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and standard office apps.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations within a theatre setting.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Passion for live theatre and artistic excellence.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of theatrical production, including scheduling, budgeting, staffing, and technical execution for multiple shows.
• Oversee technical departments: stage management, lighting, sound, set construction, costumes.
• Develop and manage production budgets within financial parameters.
• Source and negotiate with vendors for materials and external technical services.
• Create detailed production schedules and timelines.
• Supervise and mentor technical crew members.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols.
• Liaise with venue management and touring companies as required.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any technical or logistical issues during rehearsals and performances.
• Contribute to artistic planning for future productions.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Project management

Team management

Communication

Education

Degree or Diploma in Theatre Production/Stage Management

Tools

Project management software

Office applications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious theatre company in the heart of Durban , is looking for an experienced and dynamic Lead Theatre Production Manager. This crucial role involves overseeing all technical and logistical aspects of stage productions, ensuring seamless execution from conception to performance. You will be responsible for managing budgets, schedules, technical crews, and collaborating closely with directors, designers, and actors to bring artistic visions to life. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of theatrical production processes, exceptional organizational skills, and a proven ability to lead and motivate teams in a high-pressure, creative environment. This is an opportunity to contribute significantly to the thriving performing arts scene in KwaZulu-Natal and manage impactful theatrical events.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of theatrical production, including scheduling, budgeting, staffing, and technical execution for multiple shows concurrently.
• Oversee the work of technical departments such as stage management, lighting, sound, set construction, and costumes.
• Develop and manage production budgets, ensuring all activities remain within financial parameters.
• Source and negotiate with vendors for materials, equipment, and external technical services.
• Create detailed production schedules and timelines, ensuring adherence to deadlines.
• Supervise and mentor technical crew members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety protocols to ensure a secure working environment for all personnel.
• Liaise with venue management, external stakeholders, and touring companies as required.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any technical or logistical issues that arise during rehearsals and performances.
• Contribute to the artistic planning and development process of future productions.

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Theatre Production, Stage Management, or a related field; extensive experience can substitute formal education.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in theatre production management, with a proven track record of successful show delivery.
• Demonstrable expertise in all facets of theatrical production, including set design, lighting, sound, and stagecraft.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management and cost control for theatrical productions.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and standard office applications.
• Thorough understanding of health and safety regulations within a theatre setting.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as dictated by production schedules.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• A genuine passion for live theatre and a commitment to artistic excellence.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary of up to ZAR per annum, reflecting the importance of this role.
• This position includes a comprehensive medical aid package and paid time off.
• We offer opportunities for professional growth through industry workshops and continued learning.
• Employees have access to state-of-the‑art facilities and a supportive team environment.
• This is a permanent, on‑site role in Durban , allowing you to be fully immersed in the vibrant local arts community.