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Set Designer
Lighting Director
Master Electrician/Sound Engineer

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Set Designer

Merry Wives of Windsor — Southern Shakespeare Company’s 2027 Festival

Southern Shakespeare Company (SSC) is seeking a creative, collaborative, and resourceful Set Designer for our Festival production of William Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor, opening in February 2027 at Cascades Park in Tallahassee, Florida.

The Set Designer will create the physical world of the production in collaboration with the Director and Technical Director. The successful designer will balance artistic vision with the practical realities of an outdoor festival production, including budget, construction resources, safety, weather, and audience sightlines.

About the Production

SSC’s annual Shakespeare Festival presents free, professional-quality Shakespeare for audiences throughout North Florida and South Georgia. The 2027 Festival production will be performed outdoors at Cascades Park and must create a dynamic theatrical environment that supports Shakespeare’s storytelling while remaining practical, safe, durable, and accessible for an outdoor venue.

Responsibilities

Pre-Production

Collaborate with the Director to understand the artistic vision, tone, themes, period, location, and specific scenic requirements of the production.
Read and analyze the script thoroughly, identifying locations, scene changes, entrances and exits, scenic requirements, and opportunities for theatrical storytelling.
Conduct appropriate research into the play’s setting, period, architecture, furniture, décor, and visual world.
Develop design concepts, sketches, mood boards, renderings, or other visual materials to communicate the scenic approach.
Create detailed scenic design plans, including ground plans, elevations, technical drawings, and specifications as appropriate.
Work within the approved set budget and collaborate with the Technical Director and Master Carpenter to determine what should be built, rented, purchased, borrowed, or sourced from existing SSC stock.
Design with the realities of the performance venue in mind.
Ensure the scenic design complies with applicable venue regulations and all relevant safety and fire policies.

Design & Construction

Submit the completed scenic design to the Director for approval at least two weeks before the beginning of construction.
Make revisions as requested through the design approval process.
Collaborate closely with the Technical Director, Master Carpenter, construction crew, props team, and other production personnel.
Assist in the selection of appropriate construction materials based on durability, safety, cost, availability, and aesthetic requirements.
Provide clear and accurate drawings and specifications necessary for construction.
Consider sightlines, audience visibility, actor movement, accessibility, weather exposure, and the demands of an outdoor performance environment.

Rehearsal

Make necessary adjustments to the design based on rehearsal discoveries and direction from the Director.
Create revised drawings or specifications when changes are required.
Collaborate with the Lighting, Costume, Sound, Props, and other designers to ensure a cohesive production design.
Plan scene changes and scenic transitions so they can be executed safely and efficiently.
Work with the production team to address any scenic problems discovered during rehearsals.

Performance

Assist with troubleshooting unexpected scenic problems or damage during the run.
Coordinate with the production team regarding scenic transitions and maintenance.

Post-Performance

Participate in a post-production discussion with the Director and production team to evaluate the scenic design and production process.

Festival-Specific Considerations

The SSC Festival presents unique scenic challenges and opportunities. The Set Designer should be prepared to design for:

Outdoor performance at Cascades Park, including weather, wind, heat, rain, and other environmental conditions.
Large audiences and long sightlines.
Safe and efficient backstage traffic.
Fast and practical scene transitions.
The needs of both the main Festival production and the Bardlings student production.
Shared scenic resources and limited storage.
A design that is visually exciting while remaining achievable within SSC’s budget and available construction resources.
The possibility of incorporating existing SSC scenic stock and materials into a new design.
Accessibility and safe movement for performers, crew, and audience members.

Qualifications

Preferred candidates will have:

Previous experience designing sets for theatrical productions.
Strong knowledge of scenic design principles, theatrical construction, and stage safety.
The ability to communicate design ideas clearly through sketches, renderings, ground plans, elevations, and/or technical drawings.
Experience collaborating with directors, technical directors, carpenters, props teams, and other designers.
Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
The ability to work creatively within a defined budget.
A practical understanding of outdoor theatrical production is strongly preferred.
Experience with Shakespeare or other classical theatre is helpful but not required.
A collaborative attitude and willingness to work within the realities of a community-centered, non profit theatre organization.

SSC welcomes designers with a range of professional and educational backgrounds. We are especially interested in artists who can combine strong visual storytelling with creative problem-solving and practical theatrical construction.

Compensation & Commitment

This is a paid design position. Compensation ranges from $1,500 – $2,000 and will be based on experience and the scope of the production and will be discussed with qualified candidates.

The Set Designer should be available for design meetings and periodic production meetings with the specific schedule established in consultation with the Director and production team.

To Apply

Please submit:

A brief cover letter describing your interest in designing The Merry Wives of Windsor for SSC.
A résumé or CV.
A portfolio or examples of previous scenic design work.
Three professional references, if available.
Your general availability from the beginning of the design process through the February 2027 Festival.

Applications and questions should be directed to:
Bianca@southernshakes.org

Applications accepted until the position is filled.

Lighting Director

Southern Shakespeare Company — Festival Production of The Merry Wives of Windsor

Location: Cascades Park, Tallahassee, Florida

Production: The Merry Wives of Windsor

Season: February Festival Production

Position Overview

The Lighting Director is responsible for creating and executing the lighting design for Southern Shakespeare Company’s festival production of The Merry Wives of Windsor. This position works closely with the Director, Stage Manager, and other members of the production team to create a safe, effective, and visually engaging lighting environment for an outdoor performance.

The Lighting Director will develop the lighting concept and plot, collaborate with the technical team to implement the design, attend technical rehearsals, install, program and operate the lights and lighting console, and maintain the integrity of the design throughout the performance run. Because this production takes place outdoors in Cascades Park, the designer must consider changing natural light conditions, weather, audience sightlines, power distribution, equipment protection, and the unique requirements of an outdoor festival environment.

Pre-Production Responsibilities

Meet with the Director and production team to understand the artistic vision, themes, tone, and visual requirements of the production.
Analyze the script and identify lighting needs for scenes, transitions, locations, time of day, and special moments.
Develop a practical lighting design appropriate for an outdoor festival production.
Create a lighting plot, channel hookup, instrument schedule, focus notes, and other documentation necessary for installation and operation.
Select appropriate lighting fixtures, control equipment, accessories, gels, gobos, cable, and other equipment for rental.
Work within the production’s lighting budget.
Oversee and order lighting rental packages and equipment needs.
Coordinate with the Executive Director and rental vendors regarding equipment availability, delivery, and return.
Communicate with Cascades Park/festival personnel and rental companies regarding applicable rules, procedures, access, power, and equipment requirements.
Coordinate with the Master Electrician to ensure the design is technically feasible and safely implemented.
Coordinate with the Set, Costume, Sound, and other designers to create a cohesive production.
Assist in preparing a “Rain Plan.”

Installation & Rehearsal Responsibilities

Oversee implementation of the lighting plot.
Work with the Master Electrician and electrics crew on installation, addressing, focusing, and testing lighting equipment.
Create and program lighting cues. Attend technical rehearsals and dress rehearsals.
Adjust lighting levels, focus, color, timing, and cueing based on rehearsal observations.
Work with the Director and Stage Manager to refine cue timing.
Ensure lighting provides appropriate visibility for performers while maintaining the artistic goals of the design.
Provide appropriate lighting for ASL interpreters during designated performances.
Provide safe, low-level backstage lighting, preferably dark blue, while minimizing spill into the performance area.
Ensure steps and other potential backstage hazards are appropriately marked, including the use of glow tape where needed.

Performance Responsibilities

Operate the lighting console during performances or supervise a designated board operator.
Execute lighting cues consistently and accurately.
Monitor the lighting system throughout each performance.
Troubleshoot lighting issues as they arise and coordinate with the Master Electrician or technical crew when repairs are required.
Make appropriate adjustments for changing outdoor light conditions when necessary.
Maintain communication with the Stage Manager regarding lighting-related issues.
Protect all lighting equipment from food, drinks, weather, and other potential damage.
Maintain a clean and organized light console/table and lighting work area.
Help execute the Rain Plan, if needed.

Strike & Post-Production Responsibilities

Supervise the strike and restoration of lighting equipment following the festival.
Ensure rented equipment is properly packed, protected, and prepared for return.
Ensure SSC-owned equipment is cleaned, organized, and properly stored.
Participate in a post-production debrief as requested.

Qualifications

Demonstrated experience in theatrical lighting design and/or lighting operation.
Experience with theatrical lighting consoles and control systems.
Ability to read and create lighting plots and technical documentation.
Working knowledge of theatrical electrical and lighting practices.
Strong communication and collaboration skills.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced festival environment.
Outdoor/event production experience is strongly preferred.
Experience with Shakespeare or classical theatre is helpful but not required.

Physical & Working Conditions

This is an outdoor festival position and may require extended periods of standing, walking, climbing ladders, working around technical equipment, and working in changing weather conditions. The position requires adherence to all applicable safety procedures and festival/site regulations.

Festival Expectations

All technical staff are expected to maintain a professional, collaborative, and safety-conscious working environment and to represent Southern Shakespeare Company positively throughout the festival.

Compensation & Commitment

This is a paid production crew position. Compensation ranges from $2,500 – $3,000 and will be based on experience and the scope of the production and will be discussed with qualified candidates. The Lighting Director should be available for design meetings and periodic production meetings with the specific schedule established in consultation with the Director and production team.

To Apply

Please submit:

A brief cover letter describing your interest in working on The Merry Wives of Windsor for SSC.
A résumé or CV.
A portfolio or examples of previous lighting design work.
Three professional references, if available.
Your general availability from the beginning of the production process through the February 2027 Festival.
Applications and questions should be directed to: Bianca@southernshakes.org

Master Electrician / Sound Engineer

Southern Shakespeare Company — Festival Production of The Merry Wives of Windsor

Location: Cascades Park, Tallahassee, Florida

Production: The Merry Wives of Windsor

Season: February Festival Production

Position Overview

Southern Shakespeare Company is seeking a Master Electrician / Sound Engineer for our February Festival production of The Merry Wives of Windsor. The Master Electrician / Sound Engineer is responsible for the safe installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and strike of the production’s sound systems. Working closely with the Lighting Director, Director, and Stage Manager, this position translates the production’s sound needs into safe, functional, and reliable systems appropriate for an outdoor festival environment. Because the production is presented outdoors at Cascades Park, this position requires particular attention to weather protection, power distribution, cable management, equipment security, public safety, and site-specific technical requirements.

Pre-Production Responsibilities

Review the sound needs, plots, equipment lists, and technical requirements with the designers, Stage Manager and production team.
Assess the feasibility of the design and sound needs within the festival site.
Develop or assist with electrical distribution and sound system plans. Identify necessary cable, adapters, connectors, distro equipment, control equipment, speakers, microphones, amplifiers, mixers, and accessories.
Coordinate with the Executive Director and Park Liason regarding power availability and site requirements.
Communicate with venue, festival personnel, rental companies, and other technical personnel regarding electrical and sound requirements.
Assist with equipment rental orders and inventory as needed. Identify potential safety and technical concerns before installation begins.
Assist in preparing a “Rain Plan”

Electrical Responsibilities

Ensure electrical connections and equipment are installed according to applicable safety practices.
Maintain clear and safe pathways for performers, crew, and the public.
Secure cable and equipment to minimize trip hazards.
Ensure outdoor equipment is appropriately protected from weather and environmental exposure.
Troubleshoot electrical problems throughout rehearsals and performances.
Maintain an organized electrics work area.

Sound Responsibilities

Set up the production’s complete sound system, including speakers, microphones, amplifiers, mixer/console, monitors, cabling, and related equipment.
Position and connect speakers appropriately for the outdoor performance environment.
Run, secure, label, and maintain audio cabling.
Set up and test microphones and other audio equipment.
Assist the Sound Designer with implementation of the sound design.
Test and balance the sound system throughout the venue to ensure appropriate coverage and clarity.
Operate or assist with operation of the sound system during technical rehearsals and performances, as assigned.
Troubleshoot microphones, speakers, cables, amplifiers, mixers, and other audio equipment.
Make necessary adjustments to accommodate the outdoor environment and changing performance conditions.
aintain and secure sound equipment throughout the rehearsal and performance period.

Rehearsal & Technical Responsibilities

Attend technical rehearsals as required.
Make adjustments requested by the designers and Director.
Assist with cue testing and troubleshooting.
Identify and correct equipment failures.
Maintain communication with the Stage Manager, and Production Manager regarding technical issues.
Ensure all electrical, and sound equipment remains safely secured throughout rehearsals and performances.

Performance Responsibilities

Remain available for technical troubleshooting during performances as required.
Monitor electrical, and sound systems for potential problems.
Respond quickly and safely to equipment failures.
Replace or repair cables, fixtures, microphones, speakers, or other components when necessary and appropriate.
Coordinate with the Board Operators, and Stage Manager regarding technical problems.
Address weather-related concerns and protect equipment when conditions require intervention.
Maintain safe backstage and technical areas. Help execute the Rain Plan, if needed.

Safety Responsibilities

The Master Electrician / Sound Engineer is a key member of the production’s safety team and is expected to:

Follow all applicable electrical, theatrical, and sound-system safety practices.
Never compromise safety to meet a production deadline.
Ensure equipment and cable are secured against movement and public access.
Keep food and beverages away from electrical, and sound equipment.
Immediately report unsafe conditions to the Production Manager.
Follow all Cascades Park, festival, rental-company, and Southern Shakespeare Company safety requirements.

Strike Responsibilities

Supervise and/or perform the electrical and sound strike following the festival.
Safely disconnect and remove electrical, and sound equipment.
Coil, label, clean, and properly pack cable and equipment.
Assist with the return of rental equipment.
Ensure SSC-owned equipment is returned to its proper storage location.
Report damaged or missing equipment to the Production Manager.

Qualifications

Professional or advanced experience as a theatrical Master Electrician, Sound Engineer, Audio Technician, or in a similar technical position.
Strong knowledge of theatrical electrical distribution, and sound systems.
Experience setting up and operating speakers, microphones, amplifiers, mixers, and related audio equipment.
Ability to read and interpret sound plots, and technical drawings.
Ability to troubleshoot both electrical and audio equipment.
Ability to safely work with ladders, lifts, cable, speakers, and electrical equipment.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Experience with outdoor productions or festival environments is strongly preferred.
Appropriate electrical, theatrical, and audio safety knowledge is required.

Physical & Working Conditions

This position involves physical labor, including lifting and carrying equipment, climbing ladders, working outdoors, standing for extended periods, and working in changing February weather conditions. All work must be performed according to applicable safety procedures and site regulations.

Festival Expectations

The Master Electrician / Sound Engineer is expected to work collaboratively with the Director, Stage Manager, and production team while maintaining a high standard of safety, professionalism, organization, technical excellence, and care for Southern Shakespeare Company’s equipment and the festival site.

Compensation & Commitment

This is a paid position. Compensation ranges from $2,000 – $3,500 and will be based on experience and the scope of the production and will be discussed with qualified candidates.

To Apply

To Apply Please submit:

A brief cover letter describing your interest in working on The Merry Wives of Windsor for SSC.
A résumé or CV.
Three professional references, if available.
Your general availability from the beginning of the design process through the February 2027 Festival.

Applications and questions should be directed to: Bianca@southernshakes.org Applications accepted until the position is filled.

General Theater Professionals

A successful production takes a whole team to stage, and we are always on the lookout for professionals to join our team!

Whether you are an administrator, manager, designer, or tech wizard, scroll down to explore positions we are actively seeking to fill and email us your resume, or complete our interest form to be added to a database of interested non-profit theatre professionals.

*Please note that optional recognition is available for FSU students. Southern Shakespeare Company will complete any required paperwork for students to receive credit for their experience with us. Please consult your academic departments for course credit or contact the Career Center for Experience Recognition Program credit or certificate.