Job Title: Production Assistant – 2 positions
Work Period:
Position 1: June 12 to Aug. 6, 2023 (8 weeks @ 35 hours/week on average)
Position 2: July 3 to Aug. 27, 2023 (8 weeks @ 35 hours/week on average)
Location:
Position 1: University of Ottawa Studio (June 12 to July 2) Arts Court Theatre (July 3 to Aug. 6)
Position 2: University of Ottawa Studio (July 3 to 30) Arts Court Theatre (July 31 to Aug. 27)
Tasks and Responsibilities:
The Production Assistant will provide production support to one of the mainstage productions as part of the Classic Theatre Festival’s 2023 summer season. This will include rehearsal support (assisting the Stage Manager, documenting the rehearsal process, props management, maintaining a prompt book, learning to tape up the rehearsal space to reflect the eventual placement of set pieces, prompting performers, assistance with costume alterations), as well as backstage duties during performances (assisting the actors backstage with prop and set changes, liaising as needed with the Front of House Manager, acting as a liaison for the Stage Manager, setting up of props and set dressing, troubleshooting.)
Supervision of the Production Assistant will be covered by the on‐site Stage Manager. During the rehearsal and training stage, the Production Assistant will be supervised and mentored by the Stage Manager who, in addition to providing training in theatre production and rehearsal management, will also ensure they receive training in accessibility guidelines (AODA), sexual harassment rights and responsibilities, and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. During actual performance dates for the mainstage production, the Production Assistant will be supervised by the Stage Manager who will assist with the daily smooth functioning of the shows, responding to any incidents that may arise.
The Production Assistant will be personally mentored by the Stage Manager. That mentoring begins from the first day of rehearsal, when roles, responsibilities, and expectations are clearly laid out. The Stage Manager will work closely with the Production Assistant when unexpected issues that arise in the context of live performance, providing training and guidance in problem solving to address any issues that arise in the workplace (e.g., how to handle logistical challenges like a broken prop or set piece, dealing with issues related to health and safety, coming up with creative solutions under tight deadlines).
This is a training position. However, technical theatre skills and experience are an asset. The candidate must be able to work well in a team setting, be on time for all work calls, have good organizational skills and have good attention to detail.
Please send a cover letter and resume to Matthew Behrens, Associate Producer: [email protected].