THETA Artistic and Programme Director Vacancy

• Does using Applied Theatre to empower youth to take charge of their health behaviours inspire you?

• Are you looking for the challenge of growing a proven youth health programme, and to develop new health and non-health related programmes?

  The Theatre in Health Education Trust (THETA) works nationally, specialising in delivering Applied Theatre-based programmes on health-related issues to rangatahi/youth in mainstream schools and alternative education settings in Aotearoa/New Zealand. THETA is expanding its operations to include a focus on programmes for tertiary students as well as other groups in the community.

  Our interactive theatre-based programmes use a combination of traditional theatre, educational drama and interactive decision-making activities to engage participants in the exploration of issues relevant to their lives.

  We have available an exciting and rewarding opportunity to support the Trust’s work by managing and growing a successful youth health programme as well as developing and delivering new programmes.
  In this role, you will:

  • Develop the existing script for the new season of Sexwise (www.sexwise.nz) in line with NZ Ministry of Health guidelines and current best practice.

  • Coordinate and facilitate the audition and rehearsal process for Sexwise, complete the performance structure, instruct on workshop facilitation, lead two teams of actors and empower them to take responsibility for their own professional practices.

  • Produce short video bites encapsulating each character that can be used as an extension of the Sexwise programme.

  • Liaise with current and potential stakeholders, including service providers, community groups and Universities, about the development of new programmes.

  • Liaise with the THETA operations manager in the production of reports to stakeholder organisations.

  • Identify and plan for growth, and propose, devise and deliver new programmes accordingly.

  • You will be an experienced Applied Theatre practitioner, with a proven track record for devising and delivering interactive programmes that work to foster new perspectives, promote self-determination, and inspire and empower participants.

  • Be culturally sensitive and aware and respectful of gender diversity. You will be competent in, or have the ability to develop a deep understanding of the culturally specific expectations of the Ministry of Health guidelines for Sexwise around Maori and Pacific Island youth.

  • Be willing to undertake research, where required, to gain a strong understanding of current New Zealand health and wellness imperatives/practices, social issues and any other fields of knowledge relevant to programme development and delivery.

    This is a mostly autonomous role so it is imperative that you have a high-energy level with drive and enthusiasm, and can work within a dynamic team environment also. This role will have a level of flexibility - location, working hours and schedules, employee vs contractor can be discussed and agreed during the recruitment process with the successful applicant. Please note auditions and rehearsals will have set locations and times (full-time), and some travel will be required when the programme is on-tour.

If you think you possess the passion and expertise to add value to this key role, and the work THETA undertakes, we would love to hear from you.
For further information on THETA as an organisation,

• please visit www.theta.org.nz

• contact Lisa Sintmaartensdyk at Polson Higgs (on behalf of THETA) on 03 474 9708

  or THETA@ph.co.nz.
  To apply for this position, provide your current CV and covering letter outlining your

  background and interest in this role to THETA@ph.co.nz. Applications close Sunday, 16 September.

  Please advise on your ability to work in NZ. Support and arrangements for Visas can be arranged where necessary.