LaplandUK

Location: Lapland Manchester - Capesthorne Hall, Congleton Road, Macclesfield, SK11 9JY

Reports to:  Act Manager / Show Ops Manager

Start Date: Beginning/Mid-September –24th December 2026

Role Overview:

The Lead Stage Manager is a key member of the Show Operations team at LaplandUK, responsible for the safe and consistent delivery of the guest experience across multiple performance spaces, from arrival in the Elven Bazaar through to the end of Act 2, while supporting Act 3 operations.

Leading a team of Stage Supervisors, the Lead Stage Manager oversees daily show operations, supporting Cast, Backstage, and Front of House teams to ensure smooth performance delivery, high creative standards, and exceptional guest experiences.

The role is responsible for maintaining show quality, coordinating technical and scenic elements, resolving operational challenges, and ensuring all areas operate safely and efficiently. Through strong leadership and coaching, the Lead Stage Manager upholds LaplandUK’s values while driving team performance and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

OPERATIONS

• Support the delivery of a safe, efficient, and high-quality show operation across Act 1,2& 3, ensuring all activities are delivered in line with approved policies, procedures, and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Act as the operational lead for Stage Supervisors and Stage Management teams across Act 1,2&3performance spaces, ensuring consistent show delivery and guest experience standards.
• Work closely with the Act 1,2 & 3AreaManagersto coordinate daily operations, identify challenges, and implement solutions from management team to maintain smooth performance flow.

• Maintain a detailed working knowledge of all show tracks, procedures, and performance spaces to support troubleshooting and operational decision-making.
• Monitor guest and cast flow throughout the experience, escalating operational concerns and supporting the resolution of issues in real time.
• Coordinate daily show schedules, performance timings, backstage movements, and transitions to ensure the seamless delivery of the guest journey.
• Deliver clear and concise daily briefings to Stage Supervisors and operational teams, communicating key show, safety, and operational updates.
• Support the maintenance of show quality and creative standards, escalating any performance concerns to the Area Manager and Resident Show Director.

REHEARSALS AND TRAINING

• Support the Resident Show Director, Area Manager, and Stage Supervisors in the delivery of rehearsals and show readiness activities.
• Ensure rehearsal spaces, props, technical requirements, and operational resources are prepared and available as required.
• Observe rehearsals and live performances, identifying operational challenges and supporting solutions to improve show delivery.
• Deliver approved operational and procedural training to Stage Supervisors and show teams as required.
• Complete all required pre-season and in-season training, including E-Learning modules, tabletop exercises, and management training.
• Promote consistency in show standards, operational procedures, and guest experience delivery throughout the season.

TEAM SUPPORT

• Provide day-to-day leadership and support to Stage Supervisors, ensuring clear communication and consistent standards across all performance areas.
• Foster a collaborative and positive working environment between Stage Management, Cast, Backstage, Technical, and Guest Operations teams.
• Work closely with the Show People Manager regarding team welfare, wellbeing concerns, and colleague support requirements.
• Escalate staffing, performance, or operational concerns to the Area Manager as appropriate.
• Act as a visible and approachable leader, supporting teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

• Support the delivery of a safe working environment across all assigned performance and backstage areas.

• Assist in the coordination of emergency procedures and incident responses in line with company policies and event plans.
• Monitor performance spaces for health and safety risks, reporting and escalating concerns promptly.
• Ensure Stage Supervisors and operational teams are following all safety procedures and reporting requirements.
• Report incidents, near misses, and safety concerns to Event Control and relevant managers in accordance with company procedures.
• Promote a strong safety culture through proactive communication and role modelling of safe working practices.

VIP & PR GUESTS

• Support the delivery of an exceptional experience for Golden, and PR guests by ensuring the smooth operation of performance areas and responding to requests where required.
• Work collaboratively with the Golden and Guest Experience teams to facilitate special guest requirements and maintain show quality.

Role Requirements 

Essential Experience

• Previous professional experience as a Stage Manager, Deputy Stage Manager, Production Stage Manager, or similar role within theatre, immersive events, live entertainment, or visitor attractions.
• Experience coordinating complex live performances and managing multiple performance spaces simultaneously.
• Experience using stage management and show-calling software, including Stage Write or similar operational and cueing platforms.
• Strong understanding of show operations, backstage procedures, and performance scheduling.
• Experience leading and supporting stage management teams in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment.
• Sound knowledge of incident reporting procedures and operational escalation processes.
• Demonstrated understanding of Health & Safety best practice within live performance, events, or visitor experience environments.

Desirable Experience

• Experience working within immersive theatre, large-scale events, themed entertainment, or attraction-based productions.

• Experience collaborating with technical departments, including lighting, sound, props, and scenic teams.
• Familiarity with operational reporting systems, scheduling software, and digital communication platforms.
• Experience supporting rehearsal processes and live show launches.

Skills & Knowledge

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships across multiple departments.
• Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and make effective decisions in a fast-paced live environment.
• Proactive approach to problem solving and operational troubleshooting.
• Confident using digital tools and technology to support show delivery, scheduling, reporting, and communication.
• Strong understanding of stage management principles, show calling, cue execution, and backstage operations.
• Flexible and adaptable, with the ability to respond effectively to changing operational requirements.
• Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a wider management team.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to support, coach, and coordinate Stage Supervisors and operational teams.

Benefits:

• Free hot meal per day
• Free coffee, tea and soft drinks
• 20% discount in LaplandUK retail shops on selected dates
• Holiday pay paid at end of contract