Stage Manager – Nov/Dec 2026
Guildford Opera Company is seeking a Stage Manager (on the book) for our next production: Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor
Guildford Opera Company (GOC) has been providing affordable, accessible opera experiences for audiences and performers for over 50 years. We sing in English, with surtitles, and are one of very few community opera companies in the region still performing with a professional orchestra. This role offers the opportunity to play a central part in delivering a vibrant production that brings together professional musicians and members of the local community. As a small volunteer-led charity, we work flexibly and are proud of our creative, collaborative and practical approach. If you are unable to cover every duty or date listed below, we would still be pleased to hear from you.
We are looking for a Stage Manager who can:
- play a key role within our production team, alongside our Chair, Production Manager, Lighting Manager and Front of House Manager;
- lead backstage operations during show week (including the production, technical and health & safety aspects of get-in, tech/dress rehearsals, performances and get-out);
- read music and call the show from a prompt score;
- supervise members of our volunteer backstage/technical team; and
- work well with both professional and amateur members of the Company.
WHEN & WHERE
- 3 x four-hour rehearsals in Guildford: Sunday 8th November, Saturday 14th November and Sunday 22nd November.
- Two to three production meetings (in Guildford or online/hybrid), agreed in advance based on your availability.
- Show week: Monday 30th November-Saturday 5th December. Monday – all day; Tuesday – evening; Wednesday – afternoon; Thursday, Friday & Saturday – evening. Venue: St Nicolas’ Church, Bury Street, Guildford, GU2 3AW
- NB: Guildford is approx. 45 minutes by train from London Waterloo.
- St Nicolas’ Church is a short walk from the station. Lifts to rehearsal venues provided as required
FEE
To reflect experience and availability. As a guide, we are proposing an all-inclusive fee of £550 (to include travel and subsistence) for a Stage Manager able to meet the full requirements of the role and attend all the dates listed.
GET IN TOUCH
Please contact Pauline Peel, Chair of GOC, on Contact page and chose ‘Chair’ on the dropdown or telephone 07830 192493 by Friday 25th September 2026. Informal enquiries are welcome.
If you would like to apply, please send a CV and/or short covering statement outlining your experience and availability.