Senior Stage Manager

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 680,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Diverse artistic projects

Creative work environment

Professional development opportunities

Johannesburg cultural impact

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg is seeking a Senior Stage Manager to lead stage operations from rehearsal to performance. You will coordinate multiple productions, manage the technical crew, and ensure schedules and artistic integrity are upheld in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate brings at least 5 years of professional experience, strong knowledge of theatre production, and excellent communication skills to support high-profile artistic projects in South Africa's vibrant arts scene.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of professional stage management experience.
• Knowledge of theatre production, stagecraft, lighting, sound, and set design.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings and scripts.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of stage management for multiple productions simultaneously, ensuring schedules and artistic integrity.
• Develop and maintain production books, cue sheets, ground plans, prop lists, and contact info.
• Liaise with directors, designers, technicians, cast, and visiting artists for clear communication.
• Manage the technical crew during rehearsals and performances, setting lighting/sound cues and scene changes.
• Conduct pre-production and regular production meetings to track progress and issues.
• Ensure safety and well-being of cast and crew on stage and backstage.
• Manage stage budget and track expenses related to production needs.
• Coordinate venue fit-ups, get-outs, and tech rehearsals for touring productions.

Skills

Stage management

Theatre production knowledge

Organization

Communication

Reading technical drawings

Budget management

Scheduling software

Education

Theatre Arts or Production Management qualification

Tools

Scheduling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the vibrant arts and entertainment scene of Johannesburg, is seeking an experienced and highly organized Senior Stage Manager to join their dynamic team. This role is crucial for ensuring the smooth and successful execution of theatrical productions, live performances, and events. You will be at the heart of the creative process, managing the technical and logistical aspects of shows from rehearsal through to performance. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of theatrical operations, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to memorable artistic experiences in one of South Africa's most culturally rich cities.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of stage management for multiple productions simultaneously, ensuring adherence to schedules and artistic integrity.
• Develop and maintain detailed production books, including cue sheets, ground plans, prop lists, and contact information.
• Liaise effectively with directors, designers, technical staff, cast members, and visiting artists to facilitate clear communication and problem-solving.
• Manage the technical crew during rehearsals and performances, including setting cues for lighting, sound, and scene changes.
• Conduct pre-production meetings and run regular production meetings to track progress and address any emerging issues.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all cast and crew members on stage and backstage.
• Manage the stage budget and track expenses related to production needs.
• Coordinate venue fit-ups, get-outs, and technical rehearsals for touring productions.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in professional stage management, with a proven track record of successful productions.
• Strong knowledge of theatre production, stagecraft, lighting, sound, and set design principles.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical drawings and scripts.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse teams.
• Ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure.
• Experience with scheduling software and basic budget management.
• A relevant qualification in Theatre Arts, Production Management, or a related field is advantageous.
• Willingness to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by production schedules in Johannesburg .

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and high-profile artistic projects.
• Collaborative and creative work environment.
• Potential for professional development and career advancement within the arts sector.
• Contribution to the thriving cultural landscape of Johannesburg .