Shadow Puppetry Art Director

New Zealand Shadow Puppet Art Troupe Incorporated is seeking a Shadow Puppetry Art Director to join our team in Auckland.

This is a full-time, permanent position, offering a minimum of 30 hours per week, with work hours generally between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.About New Zealand Shadow Puppet Art Troupe Incorporated

New Zealand Shadow Puppet Art Troupe Incorporated is a dedicated organisation committed to delivering high-quality shadow-puppetry art and performance within New Zealand.

Drawing on the rich heritage of silhouette theatre and contemporary creativity, the organisation engages audiences of all ages through imaginative storytelling, visual art, and interactive workshops.

With a focus on community engagement and cultural enrichment, it provides opportunities for artists and participants to explore the artistry of shadows, light and narrative in new and compelling ways.

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About the Role

We are seeking a Shadow Puppetry Art Director to join our team in Auckland.

This is a full-time, permanent position, offering a minimum of 30 hours per week, with work hours generally between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The remuneration of the position will be between NZD 30 – NZD 35, depending on skills and experience.

Key Responsibilities :

Conceive and develop original storylines and scripts inspired by Chinese folktales, myths, and cultural themes.

Design, hand-craft, and paint traditional shadow puppets, props, and backdrops using leather or paper materials.

Integrate traditional craftsmanship with modern design tools, lighting, and projection techniques to enhance performances.

Direct the visual style, stage composition, and artistic presentation of all shadow-puppet performances.

Lead and mentor creative staff and performers to maintain consistent artistic quality and cultural accuracy.

Coordinate with lighting, sound, and technical teams to ensure cohesive performance outcomes.

Develop innovative adaptations that make shadow-puppetry relevant to contemporary audiences.

Plan and design exhibitions, school programs, and community workshops to promote Chinese folk arts.

Source suitable art materials and manage budgets, tools, and workshop resources effectively.

Maintain quality control and ensure health and safety compliance in all creative and production activities.

Required qualifications and skills

Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in Arts, Visual Communication, or relevant field.

Previous experience in visual arts, puppetry, or performing arts would be an advantage but is not essential.

Strong creative storytelling, design, and stage-direction skills.

Proficiency in artistic materials and tools, including experience with digital-design or lighting applications.

Deep understanding of traditional Chinese folk art and cultural symbolism.

Excellent communication, leadership, and collaboration skills.