NORPA Director Observership – Project Brief

NORPA invites early career theatre-makers to apply for a Director Observership opportunity on our 2026 production of Prima Facie. This is a unique chance to gain hands-on experience and insight into the creative process behind a professional production.

Participants will shadow the Director, Heather Fairbairn, throughout key phases of rehearsal and production, including design presentation, technical rehearsals, and production meetings. This opportunity is ideal for emerging creatives keen to deepen their understanding of directing and enrich their own artistic practice.

Who is it for?

Open to Northern Rivers-based artists, aged 18 years and over, at the early stages of their directing or theatre-making journey. This voluntary placement is designed for those seeking practical insight into directing within a professional context.

Content advice: please note, this production contains strong themes of sexual assault, and coarse language.

What’s included?

One-on-one meeting with the Director
Weekly rehearsal observation (min. 1 day per week)
Invitation to attend production meetings (min. 1 production meeting)
Observation during production week (min. 1 plot session + 1 tech/dress)

Dates

Apply by Friday 5 December, 11.59pm
All applicants will be notified of outcomes by Friday 19 December, 5pm.

Applications

Complete the Director Observership application form.

Artists are at the heart of what NORPA does. We offer opportunities for local, emerging, and established artists, as well as interstate artists looking to engage with our region.

Artists are encouraged to sign up to our newsletter to hear about professional development opportunities.

If you have a specific project you would like to discuss with us, please contact our artistic team via [email protected], with the subject line “Attn: Artistic Associate”.