Scenic Artist

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 detail-oriented Scenic Artist 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 scenic painting, visual art, or theatre design who is looking to gain hands-on experience in a collaborative production environment.

About the Role

The Scenic Artist plays a key role in bringing the visual world of the Freewill Shakespeare Festival to life through scenic painting and surface treatments. Working closely with the Production Manager and Set Designer, this role contributes directly to the realization of each production’s artistic vision.

This position is designed as a mentored learning opportunity, offering practical experience in theatrical paint techniques, colour matching, texture creation, and design interpretation. The Scenic Artist will develop artistic and technical skills while working in a fast-paced, team-oriented festival setting.

Key Responsibilities

Execute scenic painting for sets and stage elements based on the Set Designer’s specifications
Interpret design drawings, paint elevations, and colour palettes to ensure consistency in visual style
Prepare and treat surfaces for painting, including priming, texturing, and finishing
Collaborate with the Production Manager on material use and efficient workflow planning
Maintain scenic elements throughout the festival, including touch-ups and repairs as needed
Support coordination of additional scenic paint support staff or volunteers when required
Maintain paint tools, materials, and workspace to ensure safety and efficiency
Follow all safety protocols related to ventilation, PPE, and proper handling of paints and materials
Collaborate with scenic, props, and production teams to ensure smooth integration of visual elements

Who Should Apply

This role is well suited to individuals who have:

An interest in scenic art, painting, visual arts, or theatre design
Strong attention to detail and an eye for colour, texture, and finish
A willingness to learn and apply new painting techniques
The ability to work collaboratively in a creative, fast-paced environment
Strong organizational and time management skills
A proactive and adaptable approach to problem-solving
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
Scenic Artist – Freewill Shakespeare Festival.