Senior Theatre Lighting Designer & Production Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Advanced lighting technology and gear

Creative work environment

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Theatre Lighting Designer & Production Manager to lead lighting design and manage complex productions.

You will develop lighting plots, cue sheets, oversee installation and programming, and coordinate with directors, set designers, and stage management to deliver immersive performances.

The role requires strong artistic vision, technical mastery of lighting systems (ETC Eos, GrandMA), and flexibility for evenings and weekends.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience as a theatre lighting designer with diverse projects.
• Proven production management experience in theatre or performing arts.
• Strong knowledge of lighting fixtures and control consoles (ETC Eos, GrandMA).
• Ability to create detailed light plots and technical drawings.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and budgeting skills.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends in George.

Responsibilities

• Design lighting for productions considering artistic intent and budget.
• Develop lighting plots, cue sheets, equipment specs.
• Oversee installation, programming, and operation during rehearsals/performances.
• Manage technical production: scheduling, crew, procurement.
• Ensure health and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with directors and designers to realize vision.
• Maintain and repair lighting equipment; mentor juniors.

Skills

Lighting design

Production management

Budget management

Team leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Theatre Design or Technical Theatre

Tools

ETC Eos

GrandMA

Dimming systems

Networking for lighting systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious arts organization based in George, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced and visionary Senior Theatre Lighting Designer & Production Manager. This role is central to bringing theatrical productions to life, requiring a masterful understanding of lighting design principles and robust production management skills. The ideal candidate will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and executing lighting schemes that enhance storytelling and atmosphere for a variety of stage performances. Simultaneously, they will manage the technical production aspects, ensuring smooth, efficient, and safe operations from initial planning through to performance. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the visual aesthetics of theatre in the scenic Western Cape region and contribute to critically acclaimed productions. We are looking for an individual with a strong artistic sensibility, a deep technical knowledge of theatrical lighting technology, and proven ability in managing complex production schedules and budgets. The successful applicant will collaborate closely with directors, set designers, costume designers, and stage management teams to realize a cohesive artistic vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Design innovative and effective lighting for theatrical productions, considering artistic intent, technical feasibility, and budgetary constraints.
• Develop lighting plots, cue sheets, and equipment specifications for all productions.
• Oversee the installation, programming, and operation of lighting systems during rehearsals and performances.
• Manage all technical aspects of production, including scheduling, crew management, and technical equipment procurement.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations for all lighting installations and operations.
• Collaborate closely with directors and designers to interpret scripts and develop the overall aesthetic.
• Manage the lighting budget, including equipment rental, consumables, and labor costs.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any technical issues related to lighting or production during rehearsals and performances.
• Maintain and repair lighting equipment, ensuring it is in optimal working condition.
• Mentor and guide junior lighting technicians and the production crew.

Requirements

• Extensive experience as a Theatre Lighting Designer, with a portfolio showcasing diverse theatrical projects.
• Proven experience in Production Management within a theatre or performing arts setting.
• Expert knowledge of theatrical lighting fixtures, control consoles (e.g., ETC Eos, GrandMA), and networking.
• Strong understanding of scenic design, stagecraft, and technical theatre operations.
• Ability to create detailed technical drawings (e.g., light plots, section views).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in budget management and resource allocation.
• Familiarity with safety standards and practices in theatrical environments.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by production schedules in George .
• A tertiary qualification in Theatre Design, Technical Theatre, or a related field is advantageous.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package reflecting your expertise and experience.
• The opportunity to work on high-caliber theatrical productions in the beautiful Western Cape .
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A creative and stimulating work environment dedicated to artistic excellence.
• Potential for career advancement within a leading arts organization.
• Access to advanced lighting technology and equipment.