Freelance Associate Theatre Show Manager

The Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT) is the UK’s leading membership body for theatre and live performance professionals. Through training, advocacy, events, and guidance, we support the people behind the scenes who make live performance happen. Our flagship event, the ABTT Theatre Show (https://www.abtt.org.uk/abtt-theatre-show/), is an essential industry gathering that showcases innovation, fosters connections, and supports the development of backstage professionals.

We are seeking an experienced and proactive freelance Associate Theatre Show Manager to support the ABTT Theatre Show Director in the running of the event in June 2026. They will manage the planning and delivery of sections of the event such as, but not limited to the hands-on workshops, seminars and Careers Hub.

This freelance project is ideal for someone passionate about professional development in the theatre and live events sector. The Associate Theatre Show Manager will work closely with the Event Director and the wider team to curate a diverse, timely, and engaging programme of sessions that reflect ABTT’s values of inclusivity, innovation, and industry leadership.

Timeline

Project start date: Early January 2026 (subject to availability)

Project delivery date: 1 – 4 June 2026

Some days will be required following the show.

The work will be undertaken remotely with onsite delivery of the show at Alexandra Palace 1 – 4 June 2026 and occasional in-person meetings over the 6 month period.

Fee:

The fee for the project is £12,000. We estimate the work will take the equivalent of 2 standard 8 hour working days /week over the 6 months. The hours are flexible to meet the deadline as outlined above, but it is anticipated that they will be weighted more towards the beginning of the project and the delivery of the show.