Open Call for Directors: The Market Laboratory First-Year Devised Production
We are seeking an inspired and visionary director to lead our 2025 first-year student production. This is a unique opportunity to collaborate with an ensemble of twenty talented and passionate student performers in the creation of an original work. The director will guide the team through the process of devising, encouraging creativity, collaboration, and experimentation, while fostering an inclusive, supportive, and dynamic rehearsal environment.
Key Details:
- Rehearsals Begin: 04 July 2025
- Performance Dates: 07 – 10 August 2025
- Location: The Market Theatre Laboratory
Who We’re Looking For:
We invite directors with a strong interest in collaborative, creative processes to express their interest in this exciting opportunity. Ideal candidates will be passionate about working with students, and committed to fostering an inclusive, exploratory, and respectful creative environment with a large ensemble. This is an opportunity to shape the production from the ground up, encouraging students to take ownership of the work and contribute their own ideas and voices.
How to Apply: Please submit an Expression of Interest that includes the following:
- Thematic Concept: The creative prompt for the 2025 production is Nature and Mythology. Describe the thematic vision you would bring to the production. How do you see the themes emerging from collaboration with the students, and how might those themes resonate with contemporary issues or artistic exploration? [150-word limit]
- Motivation: Why do you want to work in a devised manner with students? What excites you about the process of creation in collaboration with a large student ensemble? We’re looking for a director who values process as much as product and is enthusiastic about nurturing the creative growth of emerging artists. [250-word limit]
- Relevant Experience: Briefly outline your experience directing devised work, working with large ensembles, students and/or emerging artists, and any other relevant projects you’ve directed. While experience with student productions is not required, we are looking for someone who has a passion for mentorship and a creative vision that invites exploration and risk-taking. [150-word limit]
- Approach to the Process: Share your approach to facilitating devised work. How would you balance the students’ creative contributions with your artistic vision? What strategies would you employ to build an inclusive, collaborative, and constructive rehearsal space? [250-word limit]
Deadline for Submissions: 31 January 2025
Please send your Expression of Interest, along with your CV and Biography to Roberto Pombo at Roberto@marketlab.co.za.
We are excited to see how you envision this collaborative journey and look forward to hearing from you!
