Assistant director (AD)

Job description

Main tasks and responsibilities:

to work alongside the director in putting together the cast for the show
to liaise with agents, schedule auditions and manage audition days
to attend design and production meetings as required
to support the director in rehearsals, both through creative input and administrative tasks
to ensure good communication between the creative team and staff
to assist the stage management team where required
to offer creative and pastoral support to the acting company where appropriate
to be available throughout the preview period to support the company in its development of the show
if it is deemed appropriate, and the assistant is available, then the director may ask the assistant to take notes on the show during the run of performances

General (all staff):

to promote the work of the theatre both within the industry and to all potential audience members
to work alongside the team for the good of the venue and its reputation, and to act always with discretion and in the best interests of the theatre

Personal Attributes

passionate and inquisitive about theatre making and directing
a genuine desire to further develop your directing skills
excellent communication skills
proactive, hard-working individual
organised and efficient, able to prioritise and take initiative
discreet
ability to keep calm under pressure
a team player who is sensitive to colleague’s pressures and instinctively supportive
ability to work long and unsociable hours

Skills and Experience

directing experience
management experience
an understanding of the theatre’s position with the UK and international theatre landscape