At a Glance
- Tasks: Direct the development of a new play exploring mental health and social history.
- Company: Knights Theatre, a creative hub for innovative storytelling.
- Benefits: Accommodation and travel expenses covered, plus potential future projects.
- Other info: Opportunity to collaborate with a dynamic team and grow your career.
- Why this job: Bring a powerful story to life and make an impact in the arts.
- Qualifications: Experience in directing new writing and a passion for social history.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
Knights Theatre are looking for a Director to work on the development stages of a new play If Stone Could Speak to take place in 2026 and 2027. This work will be based in Montrose and will include a public rehearsed reading at Montrose Museum on 6 November 2026 as part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival.
You will have experience of working on the development of new writing and directing professional productions. An interest in social history and folk music and culture would be desirable. Experience of working on shows with live music or alongside a musical director would also be an advantage.
We are looking for a director based in Scotland and accommodation and travel expenses will be provided for the role. There is potential for the applicant to work on a future production of the play as well as forming a relationship with the company for future productions and tours. This development project is supported by Creative Scotland and Angus Alive.
The play If Stone Could Speak is a new play by Matthew Knights exploring the life of the gifted artist and sculptor Adam Christie, who was transported from his homeland of Shetland to Montrose Sunnyside Royal Psychiatric Hospital in 1901, after struggling with severe mental health issues. He remained at the hospital until his death in 1950 where he produced a number of various artworks in particular carved stone figures which he placed in the hospital grounds and gifted to local residents. He also wrote poetry and music and painted, as well as both playing the fiddle and manufacturing them out of old tea chests. The play is an imaginative exploration of Adam's life, works and world. We are excited to be bringing this powerful story to life.
Terms
- Contract: ITC/Equity contract
- Contract Dates: 1 October 2026 - 31 July 2027
- Dates: 6 days total, 3 days in November 2026 and 3 days to be agreed in 2027.
- The candidate must be available on Thursday 5 November 2026 and Friday 6 November 2026 for a rehearsed reading at Montrose Museum.
- Accommodation and expenses for travel within Scotland will be provided.
- All candidates must be registered as self-employed.
Theatre Director in Arbroath employer: Knights Theatre Company
Knights Theatre is an exceptional employer that fosters a creative and inclusive work environment, particularly for those passionate about theatre and social history. Based in Montrose, the company offers unique opportunities for professional growth through collaborative projects, such as the development of new plays like If Stone Could Speak, while also providing support for accommodation and travel expenses. With a commitment to meaningful storytelling and community engagement, Knights Theatre is dedicated to nurturing talent and building lasting relationships within the arts sector.
