Creative Practitioner / Writer / Director, Wonderseekers / Winchester Science Centre
Feb 2026
Project overview
We are developing a 20-minute presentation-style live show designed for the general public in a science centre environment. The project involves adapting an existing script and directing a small team of science communicators/presenters to deliver an engaging, high-quality and fun performance that’s also scientifically accurate.
Winchester Science Centre has delivered a range of science shows over recent years, which have always been created in-house with a ‘home-grown’ style. We are now looking to elevate this concept through engaging creative practitioners to support the production and delivery of our presenter-led show format. You will be supported to ensure scientific accuracy and instead looking for someone to elevate the narrative structure and performance style of the Inspirer team.
We are particularly interested in practitioners with experience in one or more of the following:
- Script adaptation for live audiences
- Directing presenter-led or demonstration-based shows
- Educational or science communication performance
- Visitor attraction, museum, or informal learning environments
Location
Winchester Science Centre
Audience
Children aged 3-12 and their accompanying adults
Theme / Subject Area
Sound
Script Status
Performance Style
Team Size to Direct
10
Development Period
Feb-April 2026
Friday 10 April 2026 (with 1 st review by Friday 20 th March)
Performance Period
First show date - Saturday 25 th April 2026
Support provided
- Health and Safety expertise (for science demos)
- Basic in-house technical and AV
- Accessibility scoping and adaptations
- Additional costume / prop / set-design resources
- Rehearsal space at Winchester Science Centre
Fee Structure
Project fee – £4,500
The commission should result in:
- An update of existing script with a clear narrative and flow
- Directing practical rehearsal time with team of presenters
- A performance ready show with confident presenters
Please contact Jenna Cox, Head of Programming ( jennacox@winchestersciencecentre.org ).
Show Format
Length
20 minutes
Audience Type
Children aged 3-12 and their accompanying adults
Audience Size
Up to 100
Frequency
Performance Style
Tone
Fun, playful and curious
Technical
- Robust and repeatable, resettable multiple times a day
- Adaptable for ‘relaxed’ accessible shows
- Suitable for a max stage size of 4 x 4 metres
- Present science demonstrations in a strong visual way
- Include predictable warnings for sensory moments
What sound is (vibrations and particles)
Sound as a wave (compression waves)
How sound travels through air
How speakers and loudspeakers work
How sound frequency affects wave patterns
Ways we can “see” sound
A key element of this commission is directing our science presenters to deliver the show as a confident experience, not just a scripted demonstration.
The practitioner will be expected to work directly with presenters during rehearsals, support them in physical storytelling and use of space; voice, pace, and clarity and managing audience interaction. The goal is to empower our science presenters to feel confident and playful.
Supporting Documents and Information
- Sound Show - Science Interpretation Plan
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Creative Practitioner / Writer / Director, Wonderseekers / Winchester Science Centre employer: BIG STEM Communicators Network
The International Centre for Life in Newcastle upon Tyne is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where creativity and enthusiasm thrive. As a Visitor Experience Host, you will have the opportunity to engage with diverse audiences, fostering a love for science while enjoying flexible hours that support work-life balance. With a commitment to employee growth and development, this role provides a unique chance to inspire others in a dynamic environment dedicated to learning and exploration.
Contact Details:
BIG STEM Communicators Network Recruitment Team
