Freelance Director – Contact Young Company (Creatively Minded Men)

Company: Contact Theatre
Apply for the Freelance Director – Contact Young Company (Creatively Minded Men)
Location: Manchester
Job Description:

Contract and Compensation

Fee: £4000 flat fee, based on session rates (inclusive of planning and travel).

Contract: Fixed Term, Freelance.

Closing date for applications: Monday 22nd June, Midnight.

Key dates:

  • Rehearsals: week commencing 20 July (schedule to be confirmed)
  • Show dates & times: week commencing 17 August

About the Project

Contact has been awarded funding from The Baring Foundation to run a 2‑year CYC (Contact Young Company) project called ‘Creatively Minded Men’. The project aims to engage young men aged 18‑30 who have not previously engaged with theatre and who have experienced mental health problems.

Initially, the group will participate in six months of music workshops led by a Music Therapist in residence, from May 2026 the group will begin workshops to develop skills in spoken word, movement and devising. Together with a director, the group will create a live performance that incorporates the music they have created.

About the Role

We are seeking a Director for the production, who identifies as a man, has a strong background in devising and collaborating with young people, and enjoys working closely with other artists.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead CYC through the rehearsal process, directing and shaping the production alongside the young performers.
  • Produce a script from the devising period that can be used for the show’s BSL interpreter and captioner.
  • Ensure the production aligns with Contact’s ethos, environmental sustainability, and supportive, caring environment for the young company.

Qualifications:

  • Exhibited track record of working sensitively with young people and/or artists.
  • Skilled theatre-maker with experience creating cross‑artform performances, including gig theatre.
  • Strong track record in script development and the creation of dynamic, original work at a professional level.

Contact is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people; all successful candidates will require an enhanced disclosure and barring certificate as part of recruitment checks.

Contact warmly welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and communities.

The fee is inclusive of travel, accommodation and preparation, so the role is best suited to someone based in, connected to, or within commuting distance of Manchester.

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Posted: June 7th, 2026