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- Tasks: Design immersive soundscapes 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 cult classic and showcase your sound design skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in professional sound design for theatre productions required.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in a diverse and inclusive theatre environment.
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 Sound 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 Sound Designer. You will work closely with the Director, Musical Supervisor and Orchestrations Adaptor Matthew Malone and the Musical Director. 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 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 audio examples of your portfolio. Please put: “LSOH Sound” 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 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 our work.
Call out: Sound 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: Sound Designer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow sound designers, directors, and anyone in the theatre scene. Attend local events or workshops to make connections that could lead to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work. Include audio samples that showcase your unique style and creativity, and don’t forget to tailor it to the specific production you're applying for.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to theatres and companies you admire. Express your interest in working with them and share your portfolio – you never know what might come up!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from passionate sound designers who are ready to bring their talents to productions like Little Shop of Horrors.
We think you need these skills to ace Call out: Sound Designer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight your previous work as a Sound Designer. We want to see those two or more professional productions you've been involved in, so don’t hold back on the details!
Portfolio Power: Include some audio examples of your work in your application. This is your chance to shine, so pick pieces that showcase your skills and creativity. We love hearing what you can do!
Follow the Instructions: Make sure to use 'LSOH Sound' as your email subject when sending your application. It helps us keep everything organised, and we appreciate it when applicants follow our guidelines!
Apply Through Our Website: While you can send your CV via email, we encourage you to check out our website for any additional application tips or resources. It’s a great way to get to know us better and ensure your application stands out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern Stages’ group
✨Know Your Sound Design Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in your previous sound design projects. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you used and how they contributed to the overall production. This will show your depth of knowledge and passion for the craft.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Little Shop of Horrors
Take some time to listen to the soundtrack and understand the themes of Little Shop of Horrors. Think about how you would approach the sound design for this particular show and be prepared to share your ideas during the interview. This shows initiative and a genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare Your Portfolio
Gather audio examples of your previous work that highlight your skills as a Sound Designer. Make sure these are easily accessible during the interview, as you may want to reference them when discussing your experience. A strong portfolio can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions to ask the Director and Creative Team. This could be about their vision for the show or how they see sound enhancing the storytelling. Engaging in a dialogue shows that you’re not just interested in the job, but also in collaborating effectively with the team.
