Job Title: Production Manager 

Application Deadline: Open until filled

Start Date: January 2023

End Date: This position may continue as casual/part-time through 2023 after the festival ends in August 2023. This is negotiable.

Salary: $33 - 36 / hour (depending on experience)

Hours: flexible schedule; will range from casual to part time to full time as we get closer to the festival

 

About Freewill Shakespeare Festival

The Free Will Players Theatre Guild was formed in 1989 by a group of actors in a truly co-operative, pass-the-hat spirit with the mandate to produce the works of William Shakespeare in the form of the Freewill Shakespeare Festival. Our high-quality productions and affordable ticket prices, which range from pay-what-you-will performances to free admission for children ten and under, has attracted over 390,000 people to 42 main stage productions at the Freewill Shakespeare Festival. Traditionally our venue has been the Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park, however due to a 3 year year park rehabilitation project shutting down the entire park, Freewill Shakespeare Festival is taking their festival on the road! Freewill is bringing Shakespeare to YOUR park in 2023! 

 

Position Summary

The Production Manager supervises and coordinates all production and technical elements for all Freewill productions; responsible for the scheduling, budgeting (in consultation with the Managing Director), contracting crew heads, and execution of all aspects of physical production, establishes technical schedule of deadlines, production goals, and performance calendar; and works with the Site Technical Director to hire and supervise crew assignments.

 

Maintains effective, clear and appropriate communications with all staff, artistic and production personnel and crews at all times. Cultivates and maintains a positive and inviting work environment. The Production Manager consults with the Artistic Director and reports to the Managing Director.

 

Position Specifics

The Production Manager will be responsible for the scheduling, budgeting, contracting, and execution of all aspects of physical production. In conjunction with the Managing Director and the Artistic Director, the PM will lead all production efforts, including hiring and supervising production staff and crew. 

 

The 2023 Freewill Shakespeare Festival will be producing outside of its usual venue (The Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park) and a Production Manager will be required to help with locating the new venue(s), designing and helping with budgeting this new and exciting version of the festival. 

 

Detailed Duties of the Role

• Creating and overseeing the production schedule.

• Organizing, scheduling and running production meetings. 

• Overseeing all technical drawings required for scenery construction, plan views and section views for designers and ensure timely completion.

• Production budget estimates, tracking and enforcing (in consultation with the Managing Director).

• Ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, licensing, and safety requirements and IATSE agreement and company policies.

• Supervision of the Site Technical Director.

• Supervision of all crew heads as required.

• Communications with designers and directors.

• Supervision of designer deadlines and follow-ups as required.

• Ensuring a safe work space. 

• Encouraging the highest standards. 

• Being available for consultation through the entirety of the festival. 

• Arrange or direct the procurement of materials, equipment & rentals as so required.

• Provide logistical support to the Managing Director and Artistic Director as they so require. 

• Oversee stage management activities and provide support as they so require. 

• Willing to help achieve the best success for the festival.

 

Qualifications

• Diploma or Degree in a technical theatre program from a post-secondary institution with three (3) years of experience working in a professional theatre company OR equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Class 5 driver’s license. It is strongly suggested this person has a vehicle.

• Knowledge and adherence to safe working practices.

• Motivated: able to see a task that requires attention and completes such tasks without hesitation. 

• Ability to remain positive, upbeat, professional and with a calm demeanour under stress.

• Knowledge and understanding of lighting systems, audio systems, scenery installation standards, rigging standards, basic painting techniques, and props handling.

• Calm under pressure and ability to problem-solve in stressful situations.

• Understanding of labour standards as well ability to work with Union Crews (union crews are used to build and install the scenery).

• Exceptional attention to detail and planning. 

• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication. 

• Impeccable time management and organizational skills. 

• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks. 

• Ability to learn quickly. 

• Excellent problem solving skills. 

 

Assets

• Knowledge of Canadian theatre agreements (CAEA's ITAs) and Canadian theatre ecology. 

• Proficiency of Google Workspace, Vectors Works, QLab, and other related entertainment software. Working knowledge of CAD is an asset.

• Comfortable driving a 20’ and 16’ truck with a trailer

• A passion for theatre, performing arts, and community engaged arts. 

• Certified with First Aid and CPR training

• Experience with outdoor productions that travel is an asset. 

• Qualifications and experience as a Stage Manager, Production Assistant or Technical Director is an asset.

 

The Free Will Players Theatre Guild (FWP) 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.

 

To apply for this position

Please email your cover letter and resume along with any other pertinent information to Managing Director, Cassie Duval at md@freewillshakespeare.com

 

Applicants will be asked for 3 references if chosen for an interview.