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- Tasks: Design sets and costumes for a Halloween opera, collaborating with the director.
- Company: Join Gothic Opera, a creative force in fringe theatre productions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours and a competitive fee of £2,500.
- Why this job: Be part of a sustainable production that values creativity and resourcefulness.
- Qualifications: Experience in fringe or site-specific theatre is essential.
- Other info: Work from ASAP until 2nd November 2025 at Battersea Arts Centre.
Gothic Opera is seeking a freelance Set and Costume Designer for its 2025 Halloween production of Die Rheinnixen at Battersea Arts Centre, directed by Max Hoehn. This part-time, project-based role runs from ASAP to 2nd November 2025, involving around 17 days of flexible work including design development, sourcing materials, and attending rehearsals and performances.
The designer will collaborate closely with the director and a costume supervisor to create an atmospheric, budget-conscious production that emphasizes reuse and sustainability. This is an excellent opportunity for a creative, self-starting designer with experience in fringe or site-specific theatre.
- Set and costume design for live performance
- Budget-conscious creativity and resourcefulness
- Ability to work flexibly and independently
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Experience with fringe or small-scale theatre productions
Closing date: 08 May
Salary:
- Fee: £2,500 (project-based freelance contract)
- Time Commitment: Approx. 17 days total
- Working Hours: Flexible; includes evenings/weekends and rehearsals
- Contract Dates: ASAP – 2nd November 2025
- Location: London (Battersea Arts Centre)
Set and Costume Designer employer: Shapeslewisham
Contact Detail:
Shapeslewisham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Set and Costume Designer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the theatre industry, especially those who have worked on fringe or site-specific productions. Attend local theatre events or workshops to meet directors and other designers, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your previous work in set and costume design through a well-curated portfolio. Make sure to highlight projects that demonstrate your creativity and resourcefulness, particularly those that align with the sustainable practices mentioned in the job description.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with Gothic Opera's previous productions and their aesthetic. Understanding their style will help you tailor your approach and ideas during any discussions with the director, showing that you are genuinely interested in their vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your collaborative experiences in past projects. Highlight specific examples where you successfully communicated and worked with directors or other team members, as strong collaboration skills are essential for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Set and Costume Designer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in set and costume design, particularly in fringe or site-specific theatre. Include specific projects you've worked on that demonstrate your creativity and resourcefulness.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for theatre and your understanding of the project's emphasis on sustainability and budget-conscious creativity. Mention your ability to work flexibly and independently, as well as your collaboration skills.
Showcase Your Portfolio: Include a link to your portfolio or attach samples of your previous work that reflect your style and experience in set and costume design. Make sure to highlight any projects that align with the aesthetic of Gothic Opera.
Follow Application Instructions: Carefully read the application instructions provided by Gothic Opera. Ensure you submit all required documents before the closing date of 08 May, and double-check for any specific formatting or content requests.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shapeslewisham
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Bring along a well-organised portfolio that highlights your previous set and costume designs. Make sure to include images from past productions, especially those in fringe or site-specific theatre, as this will demonstrate your relevant experience and creativity.
✨Discuss Sustainability
Since the role emphasises budget-consciousness and sustainability, be prepared to discuss how you can incorporate these elements into your designs. Share examples of how you've reused materials or created cost-effective solutions in past projects.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Highlight your ability to work closely with directors and other team members. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated on previous projects, focusing on communication and flexibility in your approach.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility
As the role requires flexible working hours, express your willingness to adapt to different schedules, including evenings and weekends. Share any experiences where you've had to adjust your availability to meet project needs.
