Choir Director & Assistant Choir Director for Ibn Battuta travels - Seenaryo Lebanon

About Seenaryo
Participatory theatre and play can transform an individual’s sense of agency, giving them the power to shape their own narrative and expand what is possible individually and collectively. Working in Lebanon, Jordan, and Palestine, Seenaryo uses theatre and play to support people to heal, lead, and learn. We co-create performances with under-served communities, train future leaders, and transform classrooms through play. Since 2015, Seenaryo has reached over 155,000 children, youth, and women, winning the Resilience in Action Award (HundrED 2024), the Arts, Culture & Heritage Prize (UK Charity Awards 2023), and being recognized among Expo 2020 Dubai’s Global Innovators.

Project Overview – Ibn Battuta Play
The Ibn Battuta Play is a large-scale participatory theatre production with 100 participants from across Lebanon. The performance is inspired by Ibn Battuta’s travels and explores themes of journey, discovery, and human connection through theatre, movement, and music. Participants are divided into several groups — including main actors, movers, and choir — collaborating to create a unified performance blending storytelling, movement, music, and song. The set will play a central role, creating immersive environments and supporting narrative transitions. The Set Design team will coordinate all scenic elements and visual storytelling.

Objectives
Seenaryo is seeking a Choir Director and/or Assistant Choir Director to:
• Lead and/or support vocal development, harmonies, and ensemble performance.
• Integrate the choir’s musical work into the full play, coordinating with actors and movers.
• Guide the interpretation of songs to enhance narrative and emotional impact.
• Support song selection and arrangement aligned with the play’s themes.
• Ensure the choir contributes cohesively to the overall artistic vision.
Applicants may apply individually or jointly as a directing team.

Scope of Work

Facilitation & Rehearsal Direction
• Conduct or support vocal warm-ups, exercises, and skill-building.
• Lead or co-lead rehearsals to strengthen cohesion, intonation, and timing.
• Support participants of all abilities to perform confidently in an ensemble.

Musical Direction & Integration
• Design or assist in arranging musical sequences aligned with the narrative.
• Collaborate with theatre, movement, and group leaders to integrate singing with performance.
• Adapt musical pieces to accommodate multiple performer groups and logistics.

Performance Preparation
• Lead or support rehearsals leading up to technical and dress rehearsals.
• Ensure smooth transitions, timing, and coordination with other performers.
• Provide support to the choir during the final performance.

Collaboration & Coordination
• Work closely with the Director, Movement Director, and Assistant Facilitators.
• Attend creative and planning meetings as required.
• Provide brief documentation of session progress, engagement, and challenges.

Deliverables
• Facilitate approximately 11 sessions between January and April 2026 (subject to adjustment).
• Deliver cohesive musical sequences integrated into the full performance.
• Collaborate fully with actors, movers, and creative teams.
• Attend at least one technical rehearsal and the final performance.
• Submit reflection notes summarizing the process, outcomes, and recommendations (Director leads, Assistant contributes).

Duration & Timeline
January to April 2026, with full availability required for all rehearsal and performance dates.
Approximately 11 sessions during the period, subject to assessment.

Qualifications & Experience

Choir Director:
• Proven experience as a Choir Director, Musical Director, or Vocal Coach.
• Strong ensemble, harmony, and arrangement skills.
• Experience facilitating large groups in participatory or community arts.
• Theatre or performance project experience preferred.

Assistant Choir Director:
• Experience in choir facilitation, vocal training, or music education.
• Strong musicality and ability to support harmonies and ensemble work.
• Experience working with diverse groups.
• Interest in participatory theatre and community arts.

Applicants may apply for one or both roles.