The Customs House
Technical Stage Manager
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Call for Applications: Technical Stage Manager (TSM)
Sleeping Beauty – The Pantomime. The Customs House, South Shields
The Customs House is seeking an experienced and proactive Technical Stage Manager (TSM) to support the delivery and day-to-day running of our 2026 pantomime, Sleeping Beauty. This is a key, hands-on role within the technical team, combining strong organisational skills with practical backstage and technical support to ensure a smooth and consistent production throughout rehearsals and the performance run.
About the Role
As Technical Stage Manager, you will play a central role in the operational and technical running of the production, working closely with the venue, creative and technical teams.
Key responsibilities include:
- Operational Support – Supporting the day-to-day running of rehearsals and performances, helping to maintain a smooth and efficient working environment.
- Technical Coordination – Assisting with the technical running of the show, working alongside lighting, sound, and stage departments to ensure effective backstage operations and smooth running. In collaboration with the PM and Technical Operation Staff, create the show bible/script with all show cues and notes for any cover needed.
- Props & Backstage Management – Overseeing prop maintenance and sourcing, and supporting the organisation of backstage activity.
- Reporting – Producing clear and accurate daily show reports. Create and monitor rehearsal reports in collaboration with the rehearsal room assistant, which also includes keeping the script up to date with any rehearsal changes.
- Company Support – Acting as a key point of contact for day-to-day operational and technical issues, escalating where appropriate to the Production Manager or senior team. All members of the venue and production teams have an obligation to ensure and support safeguarding around the production. With teams of young children, the TSM is a vital role in ensuring safeguarding and support is adhered to during performances and report any issues or concerns to senior management immediately.
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You will be working with a company comprising:
- 8 principal cast members
- 2 adult swings
- 10 members of the young ensemble
- an experienced stage crew team of 3, including a technical swing supporting lighting, sound, and stage tracks where required
The role also includes undertaking an active backstage track as part of the running team, supporting scene changes and scenic movement where required.
You will report to the Producer and Technical & Production Managers.
About You
We are looking for someone who:
- Has professional experience as a Technical Stage Manager or senior stage management team member
- Is highly organised, proactive, and able to remain calm under pressure
- Has strong communication skills and works effectively within a collaborative team environment
- Is confident working stage-side as part of a running crew
- Has previous pantomime experience (desirable)
Preparation & Key Dates
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The contract includes half a week of preparation, which will involve:
- Rehearsal Prep
- Director Meetings
- Production Meetings with full team
Production Schedule
- Rehearsals begin: Wednesday 4 November
- Technical rehearsals: Monday 16 November
- Opening Night: Friday 20 November
- Press Night: Wednesday 25 November
- Final Performance: Saturday 2 January 2027
Days off: 1 day off per week during rehearsals, Mondays during the performance run, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.
As with all pantomime productions, the schedule includes a high-performance volume across the Christmas period.
Fee
- £720 per week (buyout), plus holiday pay
- Total Base fee: £6,480 (0.5wk Prep, 1.5wk Rehearsals, 7wk Technical and Show)
- Holiday pay: £781.49, paid at the end of the contract
Total Fee: £7,261.49
This fee is aligned with current industry agreements for subsidised theatre.
How to Apply
Please send:
- A CV
- A cover letter (maximum one page)
to: john.rainsforth@customshouse.co.uk
Deadline for applications
Friday 25 September
Interviews Held
Monday 5th October, The Customs House
The Customs House has a strong reputation for producing high-quality pantomime with an experienced and supportive team. You will be working within an established production structure alongside a dedicated Production Manager, Technical Manager, and stage crew team.
We are committed to equal opportunities and ask that all applicants complete our Equal Opportunities Form as part of the application process.
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