At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Director in creating a powerful production of Ntozake Shange’s iconic play.
- Company: The Yard Theatre, known for its commitment to inclusivity and innovative productions.
- Benefits: Competitive fee, hands-on experience, and the chance to work with an award-winning director.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to anti-racism and accessibility in the arts.
- Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking production that explores vital themes of love, survival, and resilience.
- Qualifications: Experience in theatre as a Director or Assistant Director and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 37500 £ per year.
We are looking for an Assistant Director to support Director Diane Page in the creation of a new production of Ntozake Shange’s play for coloured girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf, directed by Diane Page, with original music by Jammz.
About the Show
Ntozake Shange’s choreopoem returns – 50 years on from its first performance, long overdue in London. It explores stories of love and violence, joy and survival, and the experience of coming out the other side.
About the Director
Diane Page is an award‑winning theatre director. She holds an MFA in Theatre Directing from Birkbeck University and a BA in Theatre and Drama Studies (First Class, Hons) from the same university. Her directing credits include The Tempest and Julius Caesar at Shakespeare’s Globe, Testmatch, Yellowman and a production of Statements After an Arrest Under the Immorality Act at the Orange Tree Theatre.
Role Details and Key Dates
- Fee: £4,000.
- Freelance engagement: Monday 27 July – Saturday 17 October 2026.
- Full‑time commitment: Monday 27 July – Tuesday 8 September; one performance a week thereafter until Saturday 3 October.
- Rehearsals: Monday 27 July – Wednesday 26 August, 10 am–6 pm.
- Technical Rehearsals: Thursday 27 August – Tuesday 1 September, 10 am–6 pm.
- Preview and Press Night performances: Wednesday 2 September – Tuesday 8 September.
- Post‑Press Night: Attend one performance a week at the Yard Theatre until the final night on Saturday 3 October.
The Role of the Assistant Director
Provide creative and administrative support to Director Diane Page and the production team throughout the run of the show.
What You Will Do
- Attend rehearsals and provide general and creative support to the Director.
- Research elements of the play and discuss production ideas.
- Help facilitate the rehearsal process and keep the team aware of goals and schedules.
- Assist with communication of notes and updates to venue staff, cast, creative and technical teams.
- Support the cast, including warm‑ups, line‑runs and choreography; give post‑press notes to the cast.
- Attend all technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals and preview performances, offering notes and supporting smooth running.
- Attend one performance each week, making notes for the cast and technical team to ensure consistency.
Qualifications
- Experience working on at least two shows (including fringe, community or digital work) as Director or Assistant Director.
- Confidence in offering insight, experience and expertise to support the Director.
- Capability to provide administrative and research support.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, including delivering notes via email.
- Enjoy building relationships with Director, cast, creative and technical teams, and Yard staff.
- Deep commitment to supporting actors and members of the creative team.
Anti‑Racism & Access
The Yard is committed to anti‑racism and inclusivity. We are Disability Confident and work with Disabled People’s Organisation to remove barriers across our organisation. If you have disability access requirements or other barriers, please let us know so that reasonable adjustments can be made.
Assistant Director in London employer: The Yard Theatre
The Yard Theatre is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises creativity and collaboration. As an Assistant Director, you will have the unique opportunity to work alongside award-winning director Diane Page on a significant production, while benefiting from a supportive environment that fosters professional growth and development. With a commitment to anti-racism and inclusivity, The Yard Theatre ensures that all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute their voices to the artistic community.
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