Project Manager

Southpaw Studio Capital Project

Job Overview

  • Job Title: Project Manager - Southpaw Studio Fit-Out CIDD

  • Fee: £15k

  • Hours: Part time

  • Artform: Combined arts

  • Role: Technical & Production

  • Contract: Contract

  • Closing date: Fri, 20 Jun 2025

  • Location: North East

Job Summary

Southpaw Dance seeks an experienced Project Manager to lead the fit-out of its new Sunderland studio into a Centre for Innovation & Digital Dance.

Job Description

Southpaw Dance Productions is seeking a freelance Project Manager to lead the transformation of its new studio in Sunderland into the Centre for Innovation & Digital Dance (CIDD).
This ambitious fit-out will create an accessible, high-spec space equipped with cutting-edge digital tools for immersive performance, community engagement, and creative exploration.

The Project Manager will work closely with Southpaw's Artistic Director, technical contractors, and digital specialists to manage planning, procurement, build, and testing of both physical and digital infrastructure. The studio is housed in a listed building, requiring moveable, non-fixed installations to comply with heritage restrictions. Innovative and compliant design thinking is crucial.

Key elements include motion capture, immersive projection mapping, theatrical lighting, aerial rigging, blackout solutions, AV systems, and networked VR. The project will be delivered in structured phases, aligning with cashflow and funding milestones. Experience in project planning, H&S, budgeting, and arts-sector delivery is essential, alongside strong communication and leadership skills.

The role includes overseeing procurement (including purchases over £10k), managing stakeholder relationships, and ensuring integrated, tested systems that meet Southpaw's technical and creative goals. A collaborative approach is essential, translating artistic ambition into practical, safe solutions.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape a pioneering creative space. Applications are welcomed from individuals with experience managing digital performance environments or immersive/interactive technology projects.

Contract: June 2025 - June 2026. Fee: £15,000, paid in instalments against milestones.
This position is open to tender and managed in line with Southpaw's commitment to fair pay, adhering to Equity and ITC guidelines.

How to Apply

Please submit a CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience.

o Application deadline: 5pm Friday 20th June
Please note we will not be conducting formal interviews, but we will invite candidates of interest for an informal discussion in the studio)
o Appointment: by 5pm Wednesday 25th June
o Start Date: July 2025 (subject to confirmation).

Applications should be sent via email to info@southpaw.org.uk