Resident Assistant Director

The Resident Assistant Director (RAD) programme is a unique year-long opportunity for an exceptional early-career theatre director to be embedded within the Donmar Warehouse, one of the UK’s leading producing theatres. Designed to support the development of the next generation of theatre-makers and artistic leaders, the programme offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn, contribute and grow within a world-class artistic environment.

The RAD will gain extensive practical experience across all aspects of the directing process, working alongside some of the industry’s most respected directors, actors and creative teams. From casting and script development through to rehearsals, technical periods, previews and the running of productions, the RAD will build their skills, confidence and artistic voice through direct, hands-on experience.

The programme has been a valued part of the Donmar’s artistic life for more than thirty years and has helped launch the careers of many successful directors and artistic leaders working across the UK and internationally. It offers not only practical experience but also the opportunity to become part of a significant network of theatre professionals.

The majority of the RAD’s year will be spent assisting on productions. They will support a minimum of four productions across the season, contributing to rehearsals, technical rehearsals and preview periods, helping to facilitate creative processes and ensuring productions are maintained to the highest standard once running. Responsibilities include rehearsal support, preparation of materials, communication with creative teams and noting performances.

Alongside production work, the RAD will be a fully integrated member of the Donmar’s Artistic Team, gaining a broad understanding of how a producing theatre operates. They will contribute to literary and script-reading duties, support casting processes, attend programming discussions and participate in wider artistic planning.