Staff at Bell Shakespeare enjoy a creative and supportive workplace, that encourages collaboration and inspiration.
As part of the Bell Shakespeare team, you will:
- Receive complimentary tickets to all Bell Shakespeare productions
- Receive ongoing professional development
- Be based in a spectacular location at the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct
- Have the opportunity to work with major performing arts venues, including Sydney Opera House, Arts Centre Melbourne and Canberra Theatre Centre
- have access to special opportunities and discounts within the arts, as they arise.
Unless otherwise stated in a job description, all staff are based at our headquarters in Sydney, NSW.
Bell Shakespeare is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, people with a disability, mature age workers, and LGBTQIA+ people are encouraged to apply for this position. We believe that Shakespeare is for all.
Current Vacancies
Philanthropy Executive
Based in Sydney
Competitive salary and benefits
Bell Shakespeare relies on the unwavering support of its family of donors, corporate partners and trusts and foundations – each playing an integral role in helping to achieve the Company’s mission. Bell Shakespeare is seeking a Philanthropy Executive who, reporting to the Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager and the Head of Development, will help to generate further philanthropic revenue for Bell Shakespeare with particular focus on major gifts, special events, campaigns and other initiatives.
To be successful in this role you will be responsible for stewarding and growing current mid-level donors, assisting in key development events and contributing to the broader philanthropy strategy.
About you:
The role would suit someone who thrives in a demanding, fast-paced environment, with the ability to juggle multiple projects at any one time. You will be an organised, detail-oriented self-starter who is personable, warm, collaborative, creative, enjoys working with spreadsheets and data, and will contribute to a positive team culture.
Essential criteria:
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong relationship building skills
• Experience using databases, preferably Tessitura, and proficient with excel and Microsoft Office suite
• Well organised with meticulous attention to detail
• Proficient at collating and analysing information
• Team player, friendly, can-do approach to work and life
• Well presented, demonstrating confidence and a love for the arts, Shakespeare and theatre
• Innovative and creative, able to identify and act upon new opportunities and solve problems if and when they arise
• Ability to undertake occasional out of hours work to attend and host events
• Willingness to learn and support the team.
Desirable Criteria:
• Experience working in the arts or education sector
• Experience with Wordfly
Application:
If you are interested in the role, please send through an application for the attention of:
Ell Katte
Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager hr@bellshakespeare.com.au
Your application should include:
• Your CV (including contact details of two referees)
• A cover letter demonstrating how your experience matches the selection criteria in relation to this position.
Download the position description here
Closing date for applications is 10am, Monday 19 January. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Ell Katte, Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager, at ellk@bellshakespeare.com.au.
Development Assistant
Sydney based
Full Time
Bell Shakespeare is Australia’s national Shakespeare company. We are seeking a Development Assistant to work with the Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager, Partnerships Manager, Development and Events Manager and Head of Marketing and Development, to maintain and develop the Company’s philanthropic and corporate supporter base.
Essential criteria:
• Proficient with Excel and Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Enjoys solving problems
• Organised with a strong attention to detail
• Strong team player and able to work autonomously
• Sociable and comfortable building relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to juggle tasks and manage competing priorities
• Minimum age 18+ years
• A valid visa with permission to work in Australia for a minimum of 2 years
Desirable Criteria:
• Experience using Tessitura (ticketing and database) or similar CRM database
• Project/event management skills and experience
• Experience using the Adobe design suite, particularly InDesign
• Experience in Wordfly
• Experience/interest in the performing arts
Candidates for this role do NOT require:
• A tertiary qualification
• English as a first language
• An Australian driver’s license
• Australian citizenship or permanent residency
Application:
If you are interested in the role, please send through an application for the attention of:
Ell Katte
Philanthropy and Major Gifts Manager hr@bellshakespeare.com.au
Your application should include:
• Your CV (including contact details of two referees)
• A cover letter demonstrating how your experience matches the selection criteria in relation to this position.
Download the position description here
Closing date for applications is 10am, Monday 19 January.
Head Mechanist
Sydney based
Seasonal
Bell Shakespeare is Australia’s national Shakespeare company. We are seeking an experienced Head Mechanist to join the Company’s Mainstage team in 2026 at one of the most exciting times in the Company’s history. This position is responsible for the touring, delivery and maintenance of the staging elements of the performance. The successful candidate will be an approachable, relaxed and friendly team player keen to join a professional team to undertake a challenging but rewarding tour.
The role of Head Mechanist is a contracted for the following period of employment;
- Monday 11th May – 14th June – Sydney
- Saturday 18th July – Saturday 25th July – Transfer to Art Centre Melbourne
- Sunday 9th August – Wednesday 12th August – Bump out Melbourne/return to Sydney.
The Head Mechanist will provide support and advice to the Production Manager in the planning, creation and drawing of plans to provide to venues, maintenance and performance of the production relating to staging and scenery elements, as well as performing a leadership role, ensuring the delivery of performances and installation of staging and scenery elements in a range of venues across Australia. As a key company representative, the Head Mechanist should have a passion for working with, educating and inspiring crews across the country.
The successful applicant will be an active participant in pre-production planning, rehearsal activity, bump in, season support, bump out. This includes co-ordination and delivery of production related resources, supervision and direction of venue crews, working closely with creative teams, and maintaining accurate records and documentation within the production environment.
Essential criteria:
• Minimum of five years industry experience in theatrical production
• Minimum of 3 years' experience touring ideally with regional touring experience
• Knowledge and experience in theatre production techniques
• An understanding of the artistic process and the ability to work with creative teams
• Proven ability to work in a team environment whilst also able to work autonomously
• Flexible attitude to duties, responsibilities and working hours within the skill set of the position
• Ability to create and interpret technical Drawings using Cad (vectorworks) software
• High level computer skills, particularly using spreadsheets and word processing software
• Excellent problem solving and communication skills
• Ability to keep detailed written and electronic records
• Be able to tour for extended lengths of time
• Must hold a current driver’s licence
• Be an Australian Citizen or hold permanent residency
Desirable skills:
• Dogging and/or Rigger's certification
• Tertiary qualifications in arts, arts management and/or theatre technical and production fields
• Knowledge of Workplace Health & Safety requirements in a production environment
• Experience in using tools and machinery
• Forklift licence
Application:
If you are interested in the role, please send through your CV and a cover letter for the attention of:
Benjamin Howlett
Head of Production hr@bellshakespeare.com.au
Download the position description here
Applications will close at 5pm on 11th January.
Venue & Technical Supervisor
Sydney based
12-month contract with possibility to extend for another 12-month
Bell Shakespeare is Australia’s national touring Shakespeare company. Headquartered in Sydney, the Company tours extensively throughout Australia each year, delivering a wide-reaching theatre and education program to audiences nationally.
We are seeking a skilled Venue Technical Supervisor to work with the Venue and Operations Manager and Technical Manager as a part of the Operations Department. The role supports all venue hire and production-related activity in the new, purpose-built premises at Pier 2/3 as part of the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct.
The successful applicant will be a highly organised individual with a keen understanding of venue operations. They will ensure that crew, creative and event management teams are fully supported throughout rehearsals, performance, events and venue maintenance. In addition, the role supports the technical delivery of a suite of Company activity, including play readings, education and creative development workshops, functions, and special events as they occur each year. Under the guidance of the Technical Manager they will take the lead as a HOD on one mainstage production. In working with the Venue and Operations Manager, the successful applicant will provide essential administrative and logistical support within the organisation, including maintaining working relationships with key stakeholders in Create NSW, Colliers, Australian Chamber Orchestra and Australian Theatre for Young People.
Essential skills/attributes:
· Minimum of three years industry experience in mid- to large-scale live theatrical production
· Knowledge and experience in theatre production techniques
· Experience in the planning, installation, and operation of technical systems
· Ability to create and interpret technical drawings using CAD software
· Proven ability to manage competing projects and prioritise accordingly
· Flexible attitude to duties and responsibilities
· Excellent communication skills
· Excellent computer skills, PC and Mac, with the ability to keep detailed written and electronic records
· Knowledge of at least one technical console – lighting, audio and vision
· Physical capability of lifting and moving heavy items safely and efficiently
· Be an Australian Citizen or hold permanent residency
· Current Driver’s Licence
Desirable skills/attributes:
· Knowledge of IT systems
· Experience with Office 365 suites (SharePoint, Excel, and Word)
· Knowledge of Workplace Health & Safety requirements and experience producing WH&S documentation, including Risk Assessments.
· Ability to display resilience and courage in a team environment
· Industry experience managing a small to medium venue/creative premises or delivering theatre or events within a multi-purpose venue
· Working with children check
· Current First Aid certificate
Application:
If you are interested in the role, please send through your CV and a cover letter marked for the attention of:
Benjamin Howlett
Head of Production hr@bellshakespeare.com.au
Download the position description here
Applications will close at 10am on 27th January
Casual Crew
Are you a dedicated individual with a deep passion for the performing arts? Do you thrive in a behind-the-scenes role, helping to create unforgettable theatrical and event experiences? If so, we want to hear from you!
Bell Shakespeare is currently seeking expressions of interest from talented individuals to join our casual crew. We are looking for individuals with various skills; ranging from Lighting, Audio, General Mechanist and General production support. If you have a love for theatre and a desire to contribute to the creative process, this is the opportunity for you.
Bell Shakespeare is Australia's premier theatre company dedicated to producing and promoting the work of William Shakespeare. With a focus on innovative productions, national tours, education programs and engaging with diverse audiences, Bell Shakespeare aims to bring the genius of Shakespeare to life and make it accessible to all.
Now residing in our state-of-the-art headquarters at Walsh Bay Arts Precinct, Bell Shakespeare offers a wide range of projects and experiences for theatre crew.
Bell Shakespeare is an Equal Opportunity employer. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, and culturally and linguistically diverse applicants are encouraged to apply for these positions.
How to Apply
If you are interested in crewing at Bell Shakespeare’s headquarters on various shows and events, please complete this form.
One application per person, applicants can select multiple roles. For further information or questions please email hr@bellshakespeare.com.au