Assistant Dramaturg (Contract)
Workshop West Playwrights’ Theatre is seeking an Alberta-based Assistant Dramaturg to lead the delivery of our Play Reading Service and support the continued development of new Canadian plays.
The Play Reading Service provides playwrights with an opportunity to receive an initial dramaturgical response to their work, offering constructive feedback, encouragement, and conversation around their developing scripts. Through this program, the Assistant Dramaturg will serve as an important first point of connection between Workshop West and playwrights, helping artists strengthen their work while contributing to the discovery and development of new voices.
Reporting to the Dramaturg in Residence and Managing Director, this contract position offers an excellent opportunity for an emerging theatre artist to develop their dramaturgical practice, gain experience working directly with playwrights, and develop an understanding of the processes involved in identifying and supporting new work.
Contract Term: 8 months – October 2026 to May 2027, hybrid/remote
Compensation: $3,000 CAD
Anticipated Workload: Approximately 10 hours per month
Deadline to Submit: August 31, 2026
Submit to: Martin Galba at managingdirector@workshopwest.org
To apply, please submit a resume and a brief statement of interest outlining your relevant experience and interest in dramaturgy.
Responsibilities:
Script Reading Service & Dramaturgical Support
The Assistant Dramaturg will:
-Oversee the dramaturgical delivery of Workshop West’s Script Reading Service.
-Read and assess approximately 2–3 submitted scripts per month.
-Provide playwrights with thoughtful, constructive dramaturgical feedback focused on story, structure, character, theatricality, and opportunities for further exploration.
-Prepare written observations and notes to support conversations with playwrights.
-Conduct one-on-one meetings with playwrights to discuss their work and provide developmental insight.
-Create a supportive and encouraging environment for playwrights at all stages of development.
New Play Development Support
The Assistant Dramaturg will:
-Develop an understanding of Workshop West’s artistic mandate and new play development priorities.
-Identify scripts and playwrights that demonstrate particular promise, strong theatrical potential, or alignment with Workshop West’s interests.
-Share observations and recommendations with the Dramaturg in Residence & Managing Director regarding works that may warrant further artistic consideration.
-Participate in conversations about emerging voices and new work development opportunities as requested.
Program Development
The Assistant Dramaturg will:
-Provide feedback and insight that contributes to the ongoing evolution of Workshop West’s playwright support programs.
-Maintain records and observations related to scripts reviewed through the Play Reading Service.
-Participate in occasional meetings with Workshop West artistic staff.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have:
-A strong interest in dramaturgy, new play development, and supporting Canadian playwrights.
-Experience reading, analyzing, and discussing dramatic work.
-An understanding of dramatic structure, theatrical storytelling, and the development process.
-Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
-A passion for fostering relationships with playwrights and supporting emerging voices.
Previous dramaturgical experience, theatre training, or experience working with new plays is required.
Workshop West welcomes applications from emerging theatre artists who are interested in developing their dramaturgical practice while contributing to the creation of new Canadian work.