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- Tasks: Design stunning lighting for the iconic musical, Little Shop of Horrors.
- Company: Join Derby Theatre and Northern Stage, renowned for innovative performances.
- Benefits: Paid role with industry-standard compensation and creative collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of a beloved production and showcase your talent in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Lighting Designer on professional productions is essential.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with a diverse team and enhance your portfolio.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Derby Theatre and Northern Stage will produce the cult classic, Little Shop of Horrors – the deliciously dark, delightfully tongue-in-cheek musical that’s charmed audiences for over 40 years. Packed with unforgettable songs like Skid Row, Suddenly Seymour, and Feed Me, this outrageous musical promises killer tunes, unexpected laughs and larger-than-life characters.
Derby Theatre and Northern Stage are looking for an experienced Lighting Designer to work alongside Director Sarah Brigham and the Creative Team on Little Shop of Horrors. You will have experience of working on two or more professional productions as Lighting Designer. You will work closely with the Director, Designer Verity Quinn and Creative Captioner Ben Glover. This is a paid role in line with industry standards.
In line with our commitment to the regions we serve, we want to use this opportunity to particularly meet Designers originally from or now based in the Midlands or North East.
Key Info- DATES
- Rehearsals will run from Tuesday 7 April to Saturday 2 May 2026 in Derby.
- Technical rehearsals will take place from Monday 4 May 2026 at Northern Stage.
- Previews will run at Northern Stage from Friday 8 May to Tuesday 12 May 2026 with press night on Wednesday 13 May 2026.
- Technical rehearsals will take place from Monday 25 May 2026 at Derby Theatre.
- Previews will run at Derby Theatre from Saturday 30 May to Monday 1 June 2026 with press night on Tuesday 2 June 2026.
This role will be required to attend the first day of rehearsals and then during rehearsals at times to be arranged with the Director. During rehearsals there will be a weekly production meeting which can be attended remotely. The role will be required full time during technical rehearsals until the Press Night performance at both Northern Stage and Derby Theatre. There will also be additional preparatory work to be arranged with the Director.
How to ApplyPlease register your interest by sending your CV to s.allen@derby.ac.uk along with some visual examples of your portfolio. Please put: “LSOH Lighting” as the subject of your email. We kindly ask all artists to complete Derby Theatre’s Equalities Monitoring Form by following the link HERE. The deadline for expressions of interests is Monday 10 November 2025 at 9am. Artists will be contacted by Friday 12 December 2025 to let them know if they have been shortlisted. Shortlisted artists will meet with the Director in w/c 15 December 2025. All artists will be contacted regarding the outcome of the process in w/c 22 December 2025.
In line with Derby Theatre and Northern Stage’s effort to build a more diverse and representative theatre industry, we are particularly interested in hearing from Disabled Designers, Designers from the Global Majority, and/or Designers from working class/lower socio-economic backgrounds.
Northern Stage is a theatre where everyone is welcome. We make and present contemporary theatre, live performance and creative programmes that spark connections, provoke curiosity and joy, and explore new ways of seeing the world from our home in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne. We promote creativity and provide life-changing experiences for people who would not normally have access to such opportunities. Northern Stage is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, which means funding thanks to National Lottery players plays a huge part in supporting our work.
Call out: Lighting Designer employer: Northern Stages’ group
Contact Detail:
Northern Stages’ group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Call out: Lighting Designer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow lighting designers, directors, and theatre professionals. Attend industry events or workshops to make connections that could lead to your next gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your work! Create a stunning portfolio that highlights your best lighting designs. Make sure it’s easily accessible online, so when you apply through our website, you can share it with just a click.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out to theatres directly, express your interest in upcoming productions, and let them know how you can contribute to their vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow lighting design blogs, join forums, and keep an eye on what’s happening in the theatre scene. This knowledge will help you stand out in interviews and discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Call out: Lighting Designer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your experience as a Lighting Designer, especially any professional productions you've worked on. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to tailor it to the role at Derby Theatre and Northern Stage.
Show Off Your Portfolio: Visual examples of your work are crucial for us to see your style and creativity. Include a variety of projects that showcase your skills in lighting design. Make sure the visuals are high-quality and relevant to the production style of Little Shop of Horrors.
Follow Application Instructions: We want to make this process as smooth as possible, so be sure to follow the application instructions carefully. Use 'LSOH Lighting' as your email subject and don’t forget to complete the Equalities Monitoring Form. It’s all about making sure we get your application right!
Be Yourself!: When you’re writing your application, let your personality shine through. We’re looking for passionate and creative individuals who can bring something unique to the team. Don’t be afraid to express why you’re excited about working on Little Shop of Horrors!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Stages’ group
✨Know Your Lighting Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the technical aspects of lighting design. Brush up on your knowledge of different lighting techniques, equipment, and software that are relevant to theatre productions. Being able to discuss your past experiences and how they relate to the specific needs of 'Little Shop of Horrors' will impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Portfolio Effectively
When you send your CV and portfolio, ensure it highlights your best work. Choose visual examples that not only showcase your skills but also demonstrate your understanding of storytelling through lighting. Be prepared to discuss these examples in detail during the interview, explaining your creative choices and the impact they had on the productions.
✨Understand the Show's Aesthetic
Familiarise yourself with 'Little Shop of Horrors' and its unique style. Think about how lighting can enhance the mood and themes of the musical. During the interview, share your ideas on how you would approach the lighting design for this production, showing that you can align your vision with the director’s goals.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
This role involves working closely with the director and other creatives, so highlight your collaborative skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked in a team before, especially in high-pressure environments like theatre. Emphasising your ability to communicate and adapt will show that you're a great fit for their creative team.
