Programmer/Assistant Programmer (Arts/Theatre)

About Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is a premier arts center in Singapore, playing a pivotal role in shaping arts and culture locally and across Asia. The Programming department directs artistic ventures and audience engagement through an extensive variety of free and ticketed events, forming a key component of Singapore’s cultural calendar. The department undertakes commissioning, co-Producing, and presenting artistic performances, collaborating with both Singaporean and international artists to foster public appreciation for the arts across audiences of all ages and capabilities.

Role Overview and Key Responsibilities

• Develop, organize, and implement arts programming and season schedules as part of Esplanade's festivals, series, and projects; including generating and recommending feasible artistic proposals aligned with the centre’s objectives.
• Serve as the primary liaison with artists and their representatives (managers, producers, agents), managing negotiations and overseeing all aspects of programme planning and delivery.
• Collaborate closely with the Marketing and Development departments to design promotional strategies and sponsorship initiatives, maximize publicity efforts, boost ticket sales, and increase revenue streams.
• Coordinate with operational teams including Technical Production and Logistics to ensure programs are executed seamlessly.
• Manage and supervise artist liaison officers, project assistants, and interns engaged on projects.
• Maintain up-to-date expertise on artists, performing arts forms, and international and local performing arts trends to serve as a departmental resource.
• Handle budgeting processes for arts activities including forecasting returns, monitoring expenses to stay within allocated budgets.
• Contribute to developing and enforcing standard operating procedures for performance presentations and departmental operations.
• Support local artists and arts groups by facilitating presentations of their works and promoting initiatives that enhance public engagement and appreciation of the arts.

Candidate Requirements

• Possess a degree or relevant training in arts management, stage management, theatre production, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Prior training or experience in performing arts disciplines such as music, dance, theatre, or youth arts programming is advantageous.
• Minimum three years of experience managing performing or visual arts programs.
• Well-informed on international trends and developments in multiple art forms, with strong familiarity regarding Singapore’s arts landscape and audience preferences.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to thrive in collaborative, team-oriented environments.
• Proven capabilities in conceptualizing and implementing artistic projects and programs successfully.

Application Instructions

Candidates interested in applying should submit a cover letter alongside their resume, including details of their current and expected salary. Only shortlisted individuals will be contacted. We appreciate your interest in joining Esplanade and contributing to the arts community.