Technical Theatre Apprentice

Technical Theatre Apprentice  - Job Description

www.shaftesburytheatre.com

Purpose

Shaftesbury Theatre is the West End’s largest independent theatre and is currently home to Just For One Day – The Live Aid Musical. With premium suites, flexible event spaces, and gender-neutral restrooms, the Theatre continues to lead with innovation and inclusivity, solidifying its distinctive place within the West End. For many guests, a visit to the theatre is a major occasion—making the customer experience and technical departments essential in delivering a performance of exceptional quality.

As a Technical Theatre Apprentice, you will work under the supervision of the Heads of Stage and Electrics to support the construction, rehearsal, and execution of live performances. You will gain practical experience and training across a variety of technical disciplines, including carpentry, rigging, operating stage machinery, scenic work, lighting installation, maintenance, and show operation. This dual-department role will give you a comprehensive foundation in both stagecraft and electrics, preparing you to support all technical aspects of a production from pre-show setup to final curtain.

Duties

•          To provide an efficient and welcoming service to the artists, producers and management visiting and working with the Theatre.

•          To assist in providing a first-class level of technical support for all activities taking place on the stage and any other appropriate areas within the Shaftesbury Theatre.

•          To work in close liaison with the Head of Stage and the Head of Electrics in delivering the requirements of each  production or event hire and their respective producers, providing informed and accurate information at all times.

•          To assist in managing all stage mechanical equipment and electrical resources to ensure efficient and safe operation. Ensuring adherence to operational procedures, effective routine maintenance, cleaning and implementation of any agreed programme of replacement.

•          To work in conjunction with the other members of the Stage and Electrics department to deliver the  technical requirements of the building (front of house and backstage).

•          To ensure that all activities are carried out to the highest standard and comply with the terms of the Theatre License and any other legislative requirement.

•          To assist in maintaining adequate stocks of all stage and electrical hardware and supplies for the building.

•         To work on any special project as identified by the Head of Stage and/or The Head of Electrics.

•         To support Theatre of Comedy Company's communication objectives by sharing information with colleagues as appropriate whilst respecting confidentiality so that you and your colleagues have all the information you need to perform your duties effectively.

•         To comply with the Company’s Electronic Communications and Data Protection policies.

•         To always comply with Theatre of Comedy Company’s Equal Opportunities and Health and Safety Policies.

Person Specification

Essential

• Has a GCSE in English and Maths (Grade 4 or above), or a PASS in any BTEC

qualification.

• Does not already hold a Level 3 or 4 qualification in any form of technical theatre work.

• Has a positive attitude and enjoys working with others as part of a team.

Desirable

•          A genuine interest in the arts or working in theatre.

•          Strong listening and communication skills.

•          Ability to adapt to new situations or challenges.

•          Confidence to solve problems or resolve small conflicts calmly.

•          Attention to detail and pride in your work.

•          Ability to use basic computer systems (e.g., email, ticketing software).

•          Willingness to collaborate and support colleagues across teams.

We are Disability Confident Employer

If you're unsure whether you meet all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply.

We value potential and enthusiasm, and we’re happy to support you as you learn

on the job.

If you have access requirements or need adjustments for any part of the

application process, please let us know — we’re happy to help.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We actively

encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, especially those currently underrepresented in the arts sector, including Black, Asian and global majority communities, disabled people, and those from working-class backgrounds.