Capping Show is the world’s longest-running student comedy production, with a 130-year legacy as a cornerstone of Otago student culture. The show consists of sketches poking fun at all parts of student life, and includes musical and dance performances from historic performing groups with 90+ years of history such as the Selwyn Ballet and Otago Sextet.

 

Historically, Capping Show has been a launching point for countless nationally and internationally renowned creatives. Some of our more notable alumni include legendary New Zealand Playwright Roger Hall, comedians and writers such as Ben Hurley, Sam Smith, Abby Howells, Josh Thompson and David McPhail, documentary filmmaker Brent Hodge, journalist Baz Macdonald and two Dunedin City Mayors.

 

The next round of Capping Show performances is scheduled for May 2025, but work on the production has already begun! If you want to be part of the vibrant and storied history of Capping Show, please consider applying. This is a once-in-a-lifetime unique opportunity to learn about the craft of theatre production in a safe and supportive environment, and a chance to gain valuable experience that will carry on into the rest of your professional life.

 

Positions for Capping Show are open to all current students or recent graduates (within the last 3 years) of Otago tertiary institutions, including the University of Otago and Otago Polytechnic.

 

As Capping Show is a student-led production, the qualifications and experience required for these positions are more flexible than in other professional theatre productions.

 

 

The Sound Designer will oversee all sound elements of Capping Show, from designing and setting up the sound system to operating and maintaining it throughout the show. Working closely with the directors, you’ll create and manage the soundscape, assist the band with setup and live mixing, and ensure high-quality audio for every performance. You’ll also manage a budget to hire any necessary equipment, with support from OUSA. The Sound Designer will also support the video directors to achieve a high-quality sound for the video components of the show, including recording the live show and sending mixed audio to the video directors to include in the edited show footage.

 

Approx total working hours: 94 – mostly between March & June 2025

 

 

As Wardrobe Manager, you’ll organize, create, or source costumes for the Capping Show, ensuring they meet the directors’ creative vision and are of a high standard for the stage. You’ll maintain these costumes throughout the production, contributing to the overall quality and cohesiveness of the show.

 

Approx total working hours: 65 – Staggered from late February through to late May 2025

 

 

The Lighting Designer will design, set up, and operate the lighting for Capping Show, creating effects that enhance the humor and impact of the performance. You’ll collaborate with the directors to bring their vision to life while working within a budget to achieve dynamic lighting designs. This role is perfect for someone looking to make a creative mark in a fast-paced, high-energy production.

 

Approx total working hours: 94 – mostly in late May, with liaison and planning from Late February

 

 

Directing the musical content of the Capping Show. Recruiting volunteer members of the Capping Show Band, and preparing a set of cover songs with parody lyrics to perform before and after the show, and during intermission. The Capping Show Musical Director shall ensure that the musical content is written by students and that it is of suitable quality and humorous in style. Coordinating with the directors & choreographer on the opening and closing dance, and any other musical elements within the show.

 

Approx total working hours: 82 – Staggered from February through to late May 2025

 

 

The Set & Prop Designer will design, source, and construct the set and props for Capping Show, working closely with the directors to meet their creative requirements. You’ll also support the Stage Manager by managing set and prop materials during tech and show week. This role combines creativity and practicality, giving you the opportunity to bring a vibrant stage environment to life.

 

Approx total working hours: 98 – Staggered from February through to late May 2025

 

 

Applicants must send their CV, completed OUSA application form and a cover letter to the HR Advisor, Lauren Scrimgeour (jobs@ousa.org.nz).