Career Opportunities at Disney Theatrical Group

Puppet Assistant (Maternity Cover) - The Lion King, London

We are seeking a passionate, motivated and highly organised individual to join the Masks and Puppets department for Disney's The Lion King at London's Lyceum Theatre, on a one-year fixed-term maternity cover.
As a Puppet Assistant, you will work closely with the Head and Deputy Head of Puppets to support the smooth running of rehearsals and performances. You will play an important role in ensuring the puppetry and props elements of the production are maintained to the highest standard, supporting backstage operations and helping to maintain consistency and production continuity across the show.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Assist the Head and Deputy Head of Puppets, liaise between the Company Manager, Technical departments, Creative Team, Production and General Management Teams to ensure the smooth running of all rehearsals and performances.
• Assist the Head and Deputy Head of Puppets on any day-to-day changes that might impact the running of the Production.
• Perform daily setup, oversee Puppets pre-sets and provide communication within the team.
• Ensure awareness of understudy and swing performances ahead of each show and make necessary adjustments.
• Attend rehearsal, technical, dress and understudy rehearsals as required.
• Responsible for maintaining repairing Puppets as instructed and maintaining the quality of the show as dictated by the artistic requirements and under the direction of the Head and Deputy Head of Puppets, Production Manager and Resident Creative Team.
• Report and feedback show and staff-related issues in a timely manner.
• Acquire familiarity with all plots/tracks within the Puppets department.
• Work in accordance with the Health and Safety Policy and maintain an excellent working knowledge of all relevant health and safety legislation and good working practices, liaising closely with Disney's Health and Safety Manager to ensure that the Health and Safety Policy is followed.

Skills Required

• Experience in a similar role within a large-scale musical production.
• Knowledge of maintaining stage puppets, props, scenic painting, metal work, and sewing.
• Confident using power tools and applying basic carpentry techniques in a workshop environment.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills with cast, creative, and production teams.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and strong use of initiative.
• Able to handle issues that arise during performances with focus, professionalism, and composure.
• Full awareness of the need for integrity and confidentiality.
• Knowledge and understanding of relevant health and safety legislation.
• Proven ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
• Highly effective team player with strong collaboration skills.
• Capable of following instructions and adhering to department protocols.
• Motivated to learn new skills and committed to upholding the quality of a major production.
• Demonstrates discretion and professionalism when working closely with others.
• Well-organised and detail-oriented in all aspects of work.

Additional Information

• 1 year Maternity Cover - Fixed-term Contract, 48 hours per week.
• Start date: September 2026.
• Tuesday to Sunday (evening and weekend show schedule)
• This role will require the candidate to understand and follow the Health and Safety Rules & Regulations at the production.

For more information, or to apply please contact dtg.recruitment@disney.com

Please include a covering letter with your CV.
Closing date for applications 11 September 2026

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