Theatre stage manager : Employers and vacancy sources

There are theatre stage manager jobs in all parts of the UK. Employers range from small touring companies to medium-sized repertory companies and large-scale commercial theatres, such as those in London’s West End.

Opportunities can be found in:

• regional theatre;
• theatre-in-education companies;
• touring theatre;
• fringe theatre;
• alternative, community, prison and children’s theatre.

National theatre companies such as the National Theatre  and the Royal Shakespeare Company  are prestigious employers, as are those that produce opera (English National Opera (ENO) , Scottish Opera  and Welsh National Opera ), and dance (English National Ballet , Scottish Ballet , Northern Ballet Theatre  and The Royal Ballet ). However, these represent only a fraction of the opportunities available.

In addition to theatre work, stage managers may also be needed at open-air music concerts, festivals and theme parks. Work is available at some holiday camps and on cruise ships, which can be useful during 'dark' periods for stage managers who usually work in provincial theatre.

Sources of vacancies

• The Stage   
• Stage Jobs Pro   
• Equity  
• Stage Management Association (SMA)  
• The British Theatre Directory 
• Get Into Theatre   
• artsjobsonline  
• Guardian Jobs    
• The Scotsman  
• Local and regional vacancies may be advertised in local papers.

Recruitment agencies rarely handle vacancies. Many posts are filled through personal contacts. Direct applications to theatre groups and companies, by CV and covering letter, may lead to work.

Get tips on job hunting, CVs and covering letters and interviews.