Props Person

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.

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 a creative and resourceful Props Person to join our team for the 2026 Freewill Shakespeare Festival. This paid student position is funded through the Canada Summer Jobs program and is open to applicants between the ages of 15 and 30, making it ideal for someone interested in prop-making, technical theatre, or design who is looking to gain hands-on experience in a collaborative production environment.

About the Role

The Props Person supports the creation, sourcing, and maintenance of all props for the Freewill Shakespeare Festival. Working closely with the Production Manager and Set Designer, this role contributes directly to the realization of the productions’ artistic vision.

This position is designed as a mentored learning opportunity, offering practical experience in prop fabrication, sourcing, materials handling, and design interpretation. The Props Person will develop technical and creative skills while supporting both the build process and the ongoing use of props in a fast-paced festival environment.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in creating, sourcing, renting, purchasing, and adapting props required for the productions
Collaborate with the Production Manager, Set Designer, and Costume Designer to realize the approved design
Maintain, repair, and organize props throughout rehearsals and performances to ensure functionality and safety
Support material planning and organization to maintain efficient workflow
Participate in budgeting processes by assisting with cost estimates for materials, labour, and timelines
Collaborate with scenic, costume, and stage management teams to ensure seamless integration of props into performances
Maintain tools, equipment, and workspace in accordance with safety standards
Support coordination of any additional props assistants, volunteers, or casual personnel as required
Contribute to a safe, clean, and organized workshop and backstage environment

Who Should Apply

This role is well suited to individuals who have:

An interest in prop-making, technical theatre, or hands-on creative work
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities
A willingness to learn fabrication techniques and materials handling
The ability to manage multiple small projects simultaneously
Comfort working collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment
A proactive and adaptable approach to creative challenges
A commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful work environment

Contract Details

Start Date: May 25, 2026
End Date: July 17, 2026
Pay: $18 per hour
Hours: 35 hours/week
Eligibility: Must meet Canada Summer Jobs Requirements for Employment
- be between 15 and 30 years old at the start of their summer job
- be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the job and
- be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations
  - this includes having a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of their summer job

How to Apply

Please email proposals to info@freewillshakespeare.com with the subject line
Props Person – Freewill Shakespeare Festival.