The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) is seeking an experienced and inspiring Lecturer in Theatre and Performance Design (Set and Costume) to join our community of creative practitioners at one of the UK’s leading performing arts institutions. With a global reputation for excellence in teaching and world-class facilities, LIPA offers a distinctive environment where education and industry intersect. Our undergraduate Theatre and Performance Design programme equips students with the creative confidence, collaborative mindset and critical skills required to thrive in today’s cultural industries.
You will be passionate about teaching both the theory and practice of set and costume design across undergraduate levels (4–6). The role focuses on developing students’ creative, technical and conceptual skills in scenography, with an emphasis on collaborative and sustainable design practices for performance. You will support and inspire students to become adaptable, forward-thinking designers and makers, prepared for careers in performance and live events.
Working closely with the Programme Leader and Head of Department, you will contribute to the ongoing development and enhancement of course content, provide academic and pastoral support to students at all levels, and undertake appropriate administrative duties. The role also includes project and production supervision, module leadership, assessment, and feedback.
You will have professional experience as a Set and Costume Designer within theatre, performance, and live design contexts, evidenced through your practice. We particularly welcome applicants whose practice integrates performance design and digital technologies. You will be educated to at least degree level in a relevant subject or have equivalent professional training from a recognised centre of excellence. Additionally, active expertise in one or more of the following areas is essential; lighting, video, XR, and spatial storytelling; immersive and installation-based performance; costume making, puppetry, model making, scenic art, and design-led production. Previous teaching experience within higher education or equivalent training environments is required.
You will demonstrate excellent working knowledge of current health and safety practices, emerging industry trends and CAD software. You will have strong interpersonal, written, and digital skills, alongside the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
With a student-focused and inclusive teaching approach, you will create a supportive, equitable, and creative learning environment. You will show a strong commitment to preparing students for sustained employment as designers and makers within the creative industries.
This permanent post will commence from September 2026 or thereabouts.
Closing date for applications: Friday 5th June 2026 at 4pm
Interview date: Monday 29th June 2026.
Our Commitment to Equal Opportunities
As an equal opportunity’s employer, LIPA is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership.
As part of our Strategic Plan for 2023-2026 we are seeking to increase the diversity within our community and would particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups, people with disabilities and those identifying as female, non-binary or trans-gender.
Appointments will always be made on merit.
LIPA - a registered charity No. 1001565.