Kenny Wax Productions are seeking an experienced Deputy Stage Manager (DSM) to join The Play That Goes Wrong at the Duchess Theatre.

This is an exciting opportunity to become part of the Stage Management team on one of the West End’s longest-running productions. Working closely with the Stage Manager, Company Manager and Resident Director, the successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining the artistic and technical standards of the production while supporting rehearsals, cast changes and the smooth day-to-day running of the show.

The successful candidate will have relevant and transferable experience as a Deputy Stage Manager, or equivalent Prompt Book Cover experience on a similar commercial production, and must have the right to live and work in the UK.

Benefits include enrolment in our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and access to company rate tickets. We are committed to creating a supportive working environment that encourages both personal and professional development. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly welcome applications from those of the Global Majority.

Contract Details

Contract Type: Full-time, fixed-term contract for one year with the option to extend.

Start Date: As soon as possible

Location: Duchess Theatre, Catherine Street, London, WC2B 5LA

Show Schedule:

• Tuesday to Friday: 7:30pm
• Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
• Sunday: 3:00pm & 7:00pm

Salary: £850.28 per week (based on 8 performances)

Additional Payments:

• Technical/Sound Responsibility Payment: £48.00 per week
• Sunday Performance Payments in accordance with the SOLT/Equity Agreement

Holiday: As per the SOLT/Equity Agreement

Probationary Period: 12 weeks

Responsible To: Stage Manager & Company Manager

This role requires an organised, adaptable and proactive individual who can thrive in a fast-paced commercial theatre environment. Excellent communication and people management skills are essential, as is the ability to remain calm under pressure and execute contingencies successfully.

Due to the highly physical nature of the production, a strong understanding of Health & Safety procedures is highly desirable.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Be the main show caller for rehearsals and performances.
• Maintain and update an accurate prompt copy, including blocking, script changes, technical cues and contingency information.
• Work closely with the Stage Manager, Company Manager and Resident Director to schedule and coordinate rehearsals, ensuring rehearsal spaces and the stage are prepared in advance with the Stage Management team.
• Assist with the preparation of rehearsal calls, rehearsal reports, show reports and all other prompt copy paperwork.
• Operate the production sound system (QLab) during rehearsals and performances, prepare one radio mic for each performance and troubleshoot immediate issues alongside the theatre’s technical team (training will be given if necessary).
• Participate in the daily preset alongside the Stage Management team and complete a small designated interval reset.
• Teach and maintain the prompt copy with all designated book covers.
• Deputise for the Stage Manager during periods of holiday, sickness or training.
• Support the Stage Management team with monthly maintenance and ongoing upkeep of the production where necessary.
• Work collaboratively with all departments, including the theatre’s technical team, to ensure the smooth running of the production.
• Cross-train on other Stage Management plots where practical to provide operational resilience and departmental cover.
• Undertake any other reasonable duty that would normally fall within the remit of a Deputy Stage Manager based on industry norms and practice.

Person Specification

The successful applicant will demonstrate:

• Experience working as a Deputy Stage Manager on a commercial production, or equivalent prompt book cover experience on a large-scale commercial production.
• Confidence in maintaining the artistic and technical standards of the production.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.
• A proactive, flexible and solutions-focused approach.
• The ability to work effectively under pressure and prioritise competing demands.
• Experience working collaboratively with actors, creatives and technical departments.
• A good understanding of comic timing and maintaining consistency within a comedy production.
• Discretion and sensitivity when handling confidential information.
• Awareness of SOLT/Equity agreements.
• Awareness of current Health & Safety legislation and best practice.

How to Apply

To apply, or for further information, please send a CV and one-page cover letter to recruitment@kennywax.com by 12 noon on Wednesday 5 August 2026.

Interviews will take place in person on a date to be confirmed.

Applicants must have the right to live and work in the UK and be able to start as soon as possible.

We reserve the right to interview suitable candidates as applications are received, so we encourage early submission.