The Court Theatre is seeking a Deputy Production Manager to join our production team in our busy and dynamic theatre in central Christchurch. This is a permanent part-time position (0.45), 18 hours per week, although flexibility will be required. 

This is an ideal opportunity for a passionate theatre practitioner early in their production management career, or for a more experienced person seeking part-time work or perhaps returning to the workforce.

Purpose of the Role     

The Deputy Production Manager assists the Production Manager in all aspects of production at The Court Theatre.

The Court Theatre     

The Court Theatre has been creating and sharing live theatre with audiences from across Ōtautahi and Waitaha for more than 53 years. Each season typically features 15 – 20 productions including commissioned works, New Zealand and Australasian premieres, contemporary through to classic drama as well as comedies, improvised comedy and musicals and a recent addition, the Rainbow Theatre Weekend. This year more than 80,000 patrons are expected to attend a Court Theatre performance.

As a producing Theatre Company, The Court Theatre is supported by a team of 40 permanent staff plus many artists and artisans dedicated to creating and staging theatre experiences of the highest quality. It is the proud home of The Jesters as well as the Youth Company and Jesters Youth Company.

The Court Theatre delivers an annual Education, Learning and Engagement programme which offers training and performance opportunities to people of all ages. The Court is committed to theatre as a platform to enhance wider social outcomes and for providing opportunities for voices to be celebrated and uplifted that otherwise may be overlooked.

In 2025 The Court Theatre move into our permanent new home in the heart of the city. This brand-new, purpose-built facility is opening up new possibilities for The Court Theatre both in the way it works and the way it engages with the communities of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Our Vision & Values     

Vision:

Building community together with the people of Waitaha/Canterbury through the creation, discovery and experience of live theatre.

Goals:

• Building Community through Theatre
• Growing Knowledge, Skills and Capacity
• Creating and Sharing Live Theatre Experiences
• Building a Strong and Sustainable Organisation

Values

Maiatanga – Courageous: We work fiercely and bravely, knowing that reward requires risk. We are not afraid to push into the unknown

Manaakitanga – Welcoming: We make all who come to The Court welcome. The Court is an inclusive place to gather. We are respectful

Whanaungatanaga – Belonging: We are whanau. We celebrate diversity. We share experiences

Kotahitanga – One Team: We work together as one team for The Court

Key Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with the Production Manager, Artistic Director and show directors to assist in the effective implementation of all production requirements.
• Take the lead on the production requirements for some of the productions across the Court Theatre calendar, notably some Court Jesters, Wakefield Front Room, and Youth Company shows , ensuring their timely delivery and that budgets are adhered to.
• Substitute for the Production Manager as required.
• Assist in management of the yearly calendar.
• Assist in the effective administration of budgets.
• Assist with administrative processes, including, but not limited to coordination of music licences, hiring arrangements, quotations, travel and accommodation, technical requirements and audition processes.
• Liaise with all cast and crew to ensure timely distribution of all necessary documentation including contracts, scripts/scores, travel and accommodation for cast and creatives.
• Attend meetings and submit reports as required.
• Work closely with the Production Manager to ensure the Production Team are supported.
• Abide by all policies and procedures of The Court Theatre and ensure that these are adhered to.
• Ensure adherence to Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Any other duties as required by the organisation.

Core Competencies

• Deciding and initiating action         
• Making decisions
• Taking responsibility
• Acting with confidence
• Acting on own initiative

Organising and executing      

• Setting objectives
• Planning
• Managing time
• Managing resources
• Monitoring progress

Adapting and coping     

• Coping with pressure
• Showing emotional self-control
• Maintaining a positive outlook
• Handling criticism

Skills and experience

• At least 3 years' experience in a similar role is essential.
• Knowledge and practical experience of theatre production is highly desirable.
• Understanding of technical production, AV lighting and sound, and venue systems is highly desirable.
• Proven ability negotiating with and engaging suppliers, contractors and staff members.
• Exceptional organisational and planning skills are essential, including a proven ability to manage multiple projects at once.
• Experience working in public facing environments and the unique challenges of working in a community venue open to the public.
• Experience and interest in the arts and culture is essential.
• Qualifications in areas including Health and Safety, advanced First Aid, Accessibility, and venue management are desirable.
• Expertise in health and safety best practice and implementation is essential.
• Experience production managing touring productions is desirable.

Download a copy of the position description here.

Applications close Friday 13 February 2026

To submit an application, please send a CV and cover letter to:

Andrew Malmo
Production Manager
andrew.malmo@courttheatre.org.nz