Stage Manager (on the Book): National

48 Thoughts Per Minute by The Paper Birds. Co-Written with Jessica Fostekew. A co-production with New Wolsey Theatre. Co-commissioned by Corn Exchange Newbury & Warwick Arts Centre. Funded by Arts Council England, Essex County Council and The Fowler Smith Jones Trust.

The production combines performance, movement, live audience interaction and visual storytelling to create a theatrical world inside the human mind.

Role Summary: The Stage Manager will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of the production throughout rehearsals and performances, working closely with the Director, producers, creative team, Production Manager and touring company. During rehearsals, they will maintain the prompt copy, record blocking, staging, technical and performance notes, and support the creative team. The production will be fast-paced and the creative process is highly collaborative. The successful candidate will need to be confident working within a devised/ensemble process and responding positively to changes during the rehearsal and technical period.

Responsibilities will include:

• Maintaining the prompt copy and accurate production records.
• Recording blocking, movement, cues, props, costume and technical information.
• Supporting the Director and creative team throughout rehearsals.
• Calling the show during performances and maintaining accurate cueing.
• Liaising with performers, venue teams and the touring company.
• Supporting get-ins, get-outs and technical rehearsals as required.
• Maintaining the artistic and technical integrity of the production throughout the tour.
• Communicating daily information to the company and relevant venue staff.
• Reporting back to and liaising with the producing team.
• Supporting the company with a calm, professional and solutions-focused approach.
• Ensuring the production operates safely and efficiently within each venue.
• Undertaking other reasonable stage management duties appropriate to the role and the needs of the production.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has professional experience as a Stage Manager and/or Deputy Stage Manager.
• Previous experience in devising theatre is highly desirable.
• Has experience working in a touring theatre environment.
• Is confident calling performances and managing complex cueing.
• Is organised and able to maintain detailed production paperwork.
• Is comfortable working within a collaborative/devised creative process.
• Is a clear and confident communicator.
• Can work calmly and flexibly in a fast-paced environment.
• Has a strong understanding of health and safety and professional theatre practice.
• Is a supportive and collaborative member of a small touring company.
• Full driving licence for the UK
• Experience of working with live video, sound, captions, audience interaction or other digital/technical elements would be advantageous, but is not essential.

Fees and Contract

The Paper Birds work in line with ITC Fair Work Agreements. This role will be engaged under the ITC/Equity agreement for performers and stage managers, with a budgeted minimum weekly fee of £631 per week for 2026/27. The production will follow the relevant ITC/Equity terms and conditions, including applicable provisions relating to working hours, rest, holiday pay, travel, accommodation and allowances. Where the role requires relocation or overnight stays, applicable travel, accommodation and subsistence arrangements will be provided in line with the relevant agreement. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Equality, Diversity and Access

The Paper Birds are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable working environment. We welcome applications from people who are d/Deaf, disabled or neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and from communities currently underrepresented in the theatre industry. Please let us know if you have any access requirements or require adjustments to participate fully in the recruitment process.

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