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Head of Scenic Art

The Free Will Players Theatre Guild was formed in 1989 by a group of actors in a truly co-operative spirit with the mandate to produce the works of William Shakespeare. The company presents the Freewill Shakespeare Festival, which has grown into a professional theatre festival with an annual audience of thousands. We stage outdoor productions every summer.

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Ethnocultural Mandate

The Freewill Players is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and to building an organization that reflects the community we serve. We encourage applications from members of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities; Two-Spirit, non-binary, trans, lesbian, gay, bisexual and queer people; disabled people; youth; and members of other equity seeking groups.

The Free Will Players Theatre Guild is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Head of Scenic Art to join the production leadership team for the 2026 Freewill Shakespeare Festival. This role is ideal for a scenic artist with strong technical and artistic experience who is comfortable leading the execution of scenic finishes while mentoring and supervising additional paint staff and volunteers.


About the Role

The Head of Scenic Art oversees the execution and maintenance of all scenic painting and surface treatments for festival productions. Working closely with the Production Manager and Set Designer, this department-lead position is responsible for realizing the scenic design through paint, texture, and finish while maintaining consistency, quality, and artistic integrity.


This role emphasizes leadership, planning, and collaboration across departments, as well as oversight of materials, workflow, and safety practices throughout the build, run, and strike of the festival.


Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the execution of all scenic painting and surface treatments in accordance with the Set Designer’s specifications

  • Collaborate with the Production Manager and Set Designer to interpret paint elevations, colour palettes, and scenic details

  • Supervise, schedule, and mentor scenic paint staff, assistants, and volunteers

  • Estimate materials, labour, and timelines related to scenic painting needs

  • Manage scenic paint materials, tools, and workspace to ensure safe and efficient use

  • Coordinate with carpentry, props, and other departments to support integrated scenic workflows

  • Oversee touch-ups, repairs, and maintenance of scenic elements throughout the festival run

  • Ensure adherence to all safety standards, including proper ventilation, PPE usage, and materials handling


Who Should Apply

This role is well suited to individuals who have:

  • Experience in theatrical scenic painting and surface treatment techniques

  • Strong leadership and organizational skills

  • A collaborative approach to working with designers and production teams

  • Attention to detail and a commitment to high artistic standards

  • Knowledge of safe studio practices and materials handling


Contract Details

  • Start Date: April 28, 2026

  • End Date: June 7, 2026

  • Compensation: $26.50 per hour

  • Hours: Up to 40 hours per week


How to Apply

Please email a cover letter and resume to pm@freewillshakespeare.com with the subject line:
Head of Scenic Art – Freewill Shakespeare Festival

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