Production Assistant

Playful Productions is one of the leading independent theatre production companies in the West End. We are passionate about presenting high-quality shows to audiences across the UK and beyond. We are committed to a workplace culture that embraces equality, diversity and inclusion across all departments.

The Production Assistant supports the day-to-day management of West End productions, including both Broadway and international transfers, tours, new productions, large-scale productions and workshops. The Production Assistant works closely with the Production Coordinator to deliver the allocated productions on budget and to schedule. They will support and assist the production process from start to finish including schedules, negotiations, recruitment of production staff, processes (including accounts, payroll, royalties, marketing, technical), company welfare, press nights and travel/accommodation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the coordination of productions from pre-production to closing.
• Assist the coordination of the casting process; booking space, and actor availability checks.
• Assist and support the recruitment and appointment of production staff, including arranging interviews and preparing contractual terms.
• Draft deals for cast, stage management and technical production staff in line with budget and union agreements.
• Update the Head of Contracts with the status of issuing all production contracts.
• Support in administering updates and reports to Producers and Executive Producers on the status and progress of a production.
• Work closely with the Company Management team of each production on the management of all production staff.
• Produce and distribute schedules and welcome packs as necessary.
• Liaise with producers, co-producers and creative teams as required.
• Coordinate production insurance as and when required.
• Monitor developments in union agreements and ensure that Playful Productions fulfils its obligations as an employer.
• Check and proof weekly theatre contra statements.
• Assist in checking the weekly payroll.
• Apply for visas, work permits and appropriate tax exemptions where necessary for foreign personnel involved in UK productions.
• Oversee travel, transport, accommodation and per diems.
• Assist the coordination of every aspect of press and media nights.
• Promote a fair, inclusive and respectful working environment through policies, training and procedures.

Person Specification:

Minimum Requirements:

• Demonstrable experience working on musicals and/or plays in a professional theatre environment in a similar role.
• Experience of working on large-scale West End musicals.
• Excellent written, verbal communication and numeracy skills.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.
• A flexible approach to working hours, including evenings and weekends as required.

Essential Criteria:

• Proven ability to work effectively with high-level stakeholders.
• Demonstrable commitment to inclusive practices.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Calm, patient and resourceful approach.

Desirable Attributes:

• Experience of casting and recruitment processes.
• Experience of contract drafting.
• A sense of humour and positive, team-focused attitude.

Annual Holiday: 20 days’ holiday during each holiday year, rising to 22 days after 2 years and 25 days after 5 years of service, in addition to all Bank and Public Holidays.

Working Hours: Normally 10 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday in the office with an hour for lunch. Additional hours, including some evenings and weekends, will be expected as necessary.

Contract: Permanent. Subject to a three-month probation period.

Salary: Competitive and according to experience.

Application: All applicants must be eligible to work in the UK. To apply, please email a cover letter (no longer than 2 sides) and CV no later than 9am on Monday 3rd August 2026.