Are you into tech, cats or both? Have you ever wanted to work with artists?
Blast Theory is a company that makes interactive art: we turn websites and mobile apps into thrilling entertainment experiences; create feature films where actors and stories respond to you in real-time; design events where your phone guides you on real-life adventures through the city; and make mobile games that invite you to reimagine yourself and your future.
We are looking for a Production Assistant to work on one of our most ambitious projects yet. Cat Royale explores the impact of AI on animals and features three cats living in a utopia created by the artists. The work will premiere as a delayed live stream at the World Science Festival in Brisbane on 22 March 2023. You can read more about Cat Royale below.
You’ll be working closely with the Blast Theory artists and team to support all aspects of the production:
- Setting up the cat environment each day
- Testing and preparing equipment including:
- Cameras
- iPhones
- Microphones
- Lights
- Managing volunteers as required
- Attending daily production meetings and taking minutes
- Management of the store, equipment and kit lists, including purchases and returns
- Assisting with DIT
- Assisting in any technical tests
- Managing catering for crew
- General production support
Key dates and information
- Apply by 6pm on Monday 27th February
- Interview on Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd March
- Start date on Monday 6th March
- Last day on Tuesday 4th April
- You’ll be working at the Blast Theory studio, 20 Wellington Road, Portslade
- Fee: The Real Living Wage (£10.90 per hour)
- Working days: 20 / 146hrs
Please note that we will be reviewing applications as they come in and may fill this role before the application deadline.
Equal opportunities
We’re an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from people who are less represented in our sector: particularly people of colour, those with disabilities (including ‘invisible’ disabilities such as dyslexia or autism), and people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
About you
We’re looking for people who are curious about Blast Theory’s work and excited about working in a fast-paced production environment. You don’t need any professional experience, and you don’t need to have a degree or formal training.
How to apply
Click here to complete an application form. The form has the following sections:
Part 1 – Online – About You
Answer a few simple questions in the online form, including your name, email address, and phone number.
Upload a recent copy of your CV. This should be 2 pages max.
Please answer all questions as fully as you can.
Part 2 – Online, Video or Audio
Please answer the following questions in written form or in a video or audio recording. If making an application by phone suits you better, please contact [email protected].
- Tell us a couple of reasons why you would like to work on Cat Royale.
- How would you describe your current skills?
- What are you hoping to get out of the job opportunity?
Applying with a video or audio file
You can record the video or audio on your phone: we are not expecting snazzy production values. Your video or audio file can be up to 5 minutes long. Start your application by filling in the online survey about you and submit your video or audio file after.
Part 3 – Online
To finish your application, please complete the Equal Opportunities Monitoring form
About Cat Royale
Cat Royale is a utopia where cats live in harmony with artificial intelligence.
Cats will live inside a utopia created by the artists. The cats’ every need will be catered for, with spaces for playing and socialising, and spaces that are relaxing and private. They will have walkways, cubbyholes and raised viewing platforms.
And at the centre of the room will be a robot arm and a computer vision system offering activities to make the cats happier. The system may throw a ball, dangle a feather or offer a massage.
To ensure the comfort and safety of the cats, experts in animal welfare have been involved in the design of the project from the start and will guide us at each stage.
The computer vision system will try to measure the happiness of the cats and learn how to make them happier.
Cat Royale will be presented as a delayed live stream to audiences at the World Science Festival in Brisbane. Filming will start in the UK on 20th March.
About Blast Theory
“Working at Blast Theory was a once in a lifetime opportunity. The work speaks for itself, whilst the people are some of the kindest & compassionate I have met.” – Amber Gibbins (Kickstart Intern, 2021-22)
Blast Theory make interactive art to explore social and political questions. The group’s work places the public at the centre of unusual and sometimes unsettling experiences, to create new perspectives and open up the possibility of change.
Led by Matt Adams, Ju Row Farr and Nick Tandavanitj, the group draw on popular culture and new technologies to make performances, games, films, apps and installations.
Blast Theory have shown work at the Venice Biennale, Tribeca Film Festival, ICC in Tokyo, Hebbel am Ufer in Berlin, the Barbican and Tate Britain. Commissioners include Channel 4, Sundance Film Festival and the Royal Opera House.
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