Set Designer/Scenic Builder – Disney’s Frozen [pa]

The Lawrence Arts Center is seeking a Set Designer/Scenic Builder for our Spring Musical production of Disney’s Frozen. This is a project-based, contract position with a pay range of $1,000 – $1,500, depending on experience and scope of work.

Working closely with the director and production team, the Set Designer will create an imaginative, flexible environment that supports storytelling, movement, and youth performers. This role may also include the integration of projections to help bring the world of Arendelle to life.

This position can be combined with the Technical Theatre Teacher role for qualified applicants.

Please submit the following materials by this electronic form or by email to: justin@lawrenceartscenter.org

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Portfolio or documentation of prior scenic work (design renderings, production photos, drafting, etc.)
• Contact information for 3 references

Position Overview

This part-time, project-based position plays a key role in designing and building the set for Frozen. The Set Designer is responsible for creating scenery that is cohesive with the needs of the script, works within existing budget and time constraints, and can be safely and efficiently used by a youth cast and crew over an approximately six-week build/tech period.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop the overall scenic design concept for Frozen, including ground plans, elevations, and build drawings.
• Design and oversee the construction of all scenic elements, working within the approved budget and timeline.
• Collaborate with the director and design team to determine where projections may be incorporated (e.g., environments, textures, or magical effects) and ensure they integrate smoothly with physical scenery.
• Guide and support the technician team (and/or student crews) through the set building, painting, and load-in process.
• Reinforce safe working habits, collaboration, and adherence to shop and stage safety protocols at all times.
• Attend and contribute to regular production meetings, providing updates on design progress, build schedule, and needs.
• Coordinate with production staff regarding rehearsal needs, scene shifts, and storage solutions for scenic elements.
• Help maintain performance spaces, tools, and technical equipment in an organized, safe, and functional manner.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated technical expertise and experience in scenic design and construction, including familiarity with common materials and methods (lumber, platforms, flats, painting, etc.).
• Experience supervising builds, budgets, and crews (including technicians, volunteers, or students).
• Strong team leadership skills and a collaborative working style.
• Excellent communication skills, both in meetings and through clear drawings, notes, and build documentation.
• Proven commitment to safety in the shop and on stage.
• Experience with projections or multimedia integration in scenic design is strongly preferred or a willingness to collaborate with a projections designer/technician.
• Bachelor’s degree in Theatre, Technical Production, or related field preferred, or equivalent professional experience.