Half Moon and Z-arts are seeking a director for their forthcoming production of Grandad Anansi for ages 4-9. The production will tour England this Autumn to venues and non-traditional venues inc. libraries.

We are particularly seeking expressions of interest from those of African or African/Caribbean or wider global majority heritage who can bring an authentic perspective to the piece, and who have appropriate experience of making professional work for young audiences/families, ideally within a touring context.

Grandad Anansi tells the story of Abi and her Grandad who enjoy sharing Anansi folktales. They play games as they work together in the garden among the beautiful flowers and tasty vegetables. As they plant memories, they share secrets and develop a bond that nothing can break. This is a humorous and heartfelt inter-generational adventure, developed in collaboration with elders and children from the community in Hulme, Manchester.

Written by award-winning children’s author Elayne Ogbeta, Grandad Anansi is a Half Moon and Z-arts co-production: an exciting collaboration by the UK’s leading small-scale young people’s venue and touring company and Manchester’s award-winning venue for children and families.

The successful candidate will be expected to start working on this project through July and August in collaboration with the creative team and producers including casting. Rehearsals take place in Manchester, with some requirement to undertake zoom and in-person meetings in advance of these dates.

👉Rehearsals start week beginning 5^th September, with the show opening at Z-arts on 30^th September before undertaking a tour of England ending 30^th October.

👉Fee: £3500, plus relocation and living costs in line with the management organisation ITC.

👉Expressions of interest including CV, website and social media links (as appropriate) and a statement highlighting skills and experiences appropriate for the role via email to: rowan@z-arts.org  by 10 am Friday 17^th June

👉Candidates should be available to meet the producers and writer, ideally on 27^th June (in Manchester or on zoom) as part of the recruitment process.