Hiring a Puppeteer

Summer Ensemble 2026

Deadline To Apply: November 20th 2025
Mya puppeteering the rabbit puppet for Mirror a puppet show

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Want to be a part of one of the fastest growing professional theatre companies in Canada? Crane Creations is hiring a puppeteer. This is a full time position in Mississauga, Ontario.

The Role 

Puppeteers in the Summer Ensemble will manipulate different types of puppets, collaborate in creative work, and explore the intersection of acting, movement, and design. Puppeteers gain hands-on experience in puppet design and construction, and develop an understanding of how form and material influence character and movement. In addition to performing, Puppeteers also gain insight into the professional theatre and puppetry industry through mentorship, research, and reflection.

Type of Engagement: Full time 

Start Date: June 9th 2026

End Date: July 31st 2026

Compensation: $5,040 ($18/hr)

This role is part of Summer Ensemble 2026.

What Is Summer Ensemble?

Summer Ensemble is a one of a kind work experience for artists pursuing a career in the Canadian theatre industry. Summer Ensemble hires artists between the ages of 18 to 30 to work full time over the course of several weeks. Along the way, learn valuable skills and gain experience in this fast-paced, intense program. 

Working At Summer Ensemble

Job Description

Tasks and Responsibilities:

  • punctually arrive to rehearsals and performances;
  • learn and practice industry-specific warm-up exercises for physical and vocal control;
  • apply fundamental puppetry techniques, including breath, focus, weight, and synchronization;
  • integrate puppetry with acting, sound, and movement;
  • explore and practice manipulation styles for various puppets (tabletop, hand, rod, shadow, object, etc.);
  • read, analyze, and interpret scripts, themes, or improvisation prompts for puppet performance;
  • design, build, creation, and maintenance of puppets used in rehearsals or performances;
    experiment with materials, textures, and mechanisms to explore character and movement possibilities;
  • research puppetry traditions, materials, and artists relevant to the project or style explored;
  • work collaboratively in a team environment, communicate ideas clearly and effectively (orally and non-orally);
  • improvise scenes with puppets or objects;
  • understand and follow artistic direction;
  • actively participate in ensemble discussions and feedback sessions;
  • follow instruction from CCTC’s staff.

 

This is a learning on the job role and will also entail the following requirements: 

  • watch videos of productions, acting exercises and other professional materials as required;
  • with the help of a mentor learn how to evaluate professional theatre’s elements;
  • participate in learning activities about professional companies (employers), funding bodies and grants;
  • complete delegated tasks such as research or reports or articles in a timely matter; 
  • discuss and debate elements of professional productions and acting techniques;
  • learn how to write and edit a blogpost under supervision and mentorship;
  • writing blog posts as required.

Reports to

Director, Artistic Director, General Manager

Requirements: 

  • Be available to work online and in person at our theatre (3650 Dixie Rd, Mississauga, ON L4Y 3V9) and studio (2359 Royal Windsor Drive Unit 210, Mississauga, ON L5J 4S9).
  • Be available for all dates and hours stated in contract.
  • Be a Canadian Citizen, have a PR, or refugee status.
  • Be between 18 – 30 years of age at the start of the program.

Application Process

How To Apply

Click the button below to apply. Before applying make sure you have read the Job Description and Requirements thoroughly. 

Deadline To Apply: November 20 2025

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62% off

USE CODE: CHRISTMAS1
ends 12/20/2023

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