Russian-Speaking Theatre Scholar and Lecturer
Freelance / Part-Time | London
About the role:
A newly established private intellectual and cultural club in London is seeking an exceptional Theatre Scholar and Lecturer for long-term freelance collaboration.
The club brings together people with a serious interest in literature, theatre, philosophy, mythology and the arts. We are currently building a network of distinguished scholars and cultural professionals capable of presenting intellectually rigorous subjects in an engaging, elegant and accessible manner.
The successful candidate will help us curate an annual programme of theatre visits in London and deliver lectures in Russian before selected performances.
Key responsibilities
* Help create an annual programme of important and intellectually significant theatre productions in London.
* Recommend notable premieres, festivals, visiting companies, directors and other cultural events.
* Keep the club’s founder informed about relevant forthcoming productions and ticket releases.
* Deliver an engaging 45–60-minute lecture in Russian before each selected performance.
* Introduce the historical, literary, philosophical and theatrical context of the production.
* Discuss the playwright, director, interpretation, performance tradition and cultural significance of the work.
* Prepare concise background materials or recommended reading when appropriate.
* Provide occasional consultancy on theatrical programming and cultural events.
The lecturer will not normally be required to attend the performance, although attendance or participation in a post-performance discussion may occasionally be agreed separately.
Schedule and terms
This is intended to be a long-term freelance collaboration.
At the initial stage, we expect approximately one or two engagements per month. The number of events may increase as the club develops.
Lectures will normally take place at 18:00 at carefully selected venues in central London shortly before the performance.
Payment will be agreed on an hourly or per-event basis, depending on the candidate’s qualifications, experience and the preparation required.
Essential requirements
* Fluent or native-level Russian, as lectures will be delivered in Russian.
* Excellent command of English.
* A Master’s degree, PhD or equivalent advanced academic qualification in Theatre Studies, Drama, Performance Studies, Dramatic Literature, Comparative Literature or a closely related discipline.
* A strong academic record from a leading UK or international university, drama school or conservatoire.
* Extensive knowledge of British, European and international theatre.
* A deep understanding of theatre history, dramatic literature and contemporary theatrical practice.
* Proven experience in university teaching, public lecturing, theatre criticism, dramaturgy, research or cultural programming.
* The ability to explain complex subjects with clarity, intelligence and enthusiasm.
* An engaging and energetic presentation style.
* Excellent communication skills, reliability, punctuality, discretion and cultural sensitivity.
* A polished and professional standard of presentation and conduct appropriate for a private intellectual club and leading cultural venues.
* Based in London or able to travel regularly to central London.
* The right to work or provide freelance services in the United Kingdom.
Desirable
* Doctoral-level research or university teaching experience.
* Experience speaking to sophisticated adult audiences.
* Professional experience as a theatre scholar, critic, dramaturg, curator, researcher or director.
* Excellent knowledge of London’s current theatre scene.
* An established professional or academic network within British theatre.
* Experience creating lecture programmes or educational cultural events.
The ideal candidate
We are looking for someone who genuinely loves theatre and is able to communicate that passion with energy, depth and intellectual elegance.
The ideal candidate will be highly educated, articulate, warm, tactful and culturally aware. They should be able to hold the attention of an audience, create a lively intellectual atmosphere and make every lecture a memorable part of the theatrical experience.
How to apply
Please provide:
* Your CV.
* A short cover letter describing your academic background and areas of specialisation.
* Details of your lecturing, teaching or public-speaking experience.
* Examples or recordings of previous lectures, interviews or presentations, if available.
* Your availability in London.
* Your expected hourly or per-event fee.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to deliver a paid trial lecture.
Pay: £100.00-£200.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
