Position Summary The Composer is responsible for creating the musical score for Axeman , a new original musical set against the backdrop of the infamous Axeman murders in 1918 New Orleans.

Working in close collaboration with the lyricist, book writer, and creative team, the Composer will develop a rich, distinctive musical language that captures the mystery, danger, romance, and cultural vibrancy of Current Orleans. The score should honour the city's jazz heritage while drawing inspiration from contemporary music theatre storytelling, creating a commercially compelling and emotionally impactful theatrical experience.

Core Attributes

- Exceptional musical storytelling ability with a strong understanding of character-driven composition.
- Deep appreciation for jazz, blues, ragtime, early American music, and the musical traditions of New Orleans.
- Ability to blend traditional and contemporary music theatre styles into a cohesive and original score.
- Strong collaborative skills and openness to feedback throughout the development process.
- Creative curiosity and a willingness to experiment with new musical ideas and theatrical forms.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Self-motivated and highly organised, with the ability to meet development milestones and deadlines.
- Passion for creating ambitious new Australian musical theatre works.
- Strong understanding of dramatic structure, pacing, and the relationship between music and narrative.

Core Role Responsibilities

- Compose the full musical score for Axeman , including songs, underscoring, transitions, dance arrangements, and incidental music as required.
- Develop musical themes, motifs, and recurring material that enhance character development and support the dramatic narrative.
- Create a distinctive musical identity that reflects the culture, atmosphere, and musical traditions of 1918 New Orleans.
- Collaborate closely with the lyricist and book writer to ensure songs advance story, character, and emotional stakes.




- Write music that supports the show's blend of mystery, suspense, romance, humour, and ensemble storytelling.
- Participate actively in workshops, readings, rehearsals, and developmental presentations.
- Revise and refine musical material in response to feedback from collaborators, performers, directors, dramaturgs, producers, and audiences.
- Prepare demo recordings, rehearsal materials, vocal scores, and orchestration notes to support ongoing development.
- Work alongside music directors, arrangers, orchestrators, and musicians to realise the musical vision of the production.
- Contribute to discussions regarding the show's artistic direction, musical style, and long-term commercial positioning.
- Support industry presentations, pitches, workshops, and showcase performances when required.
- Engage with educational and industry partners, including workshop opportunities and development programs.

Key Outcomes

- A complete and cohesive musical score that serves the story and characters of Axeman .
- A distinctive musical voice that combines the grandeur of classic musical theatre with the raw energy and authenticity of New Orleans jazz.
- Songs that are theatrically effective, emotionally resonant, and commercially appealing.
- Successful integration of music and storytelling through developmental workshops and presentations.
- A score capable of supporting future professional productions, educational partnerships, recordings, and broader commercial opportunities.
- Contribution to the creation of a bold, atmospheric, and unforgettable musical that leaves audiences captivated by one of history's great unsolved mysteries.

We welcome all composers at all stages of their career to apply. We are committed to providing a psychologically and physically safe workplace and are strongly inclusive. We are open to global applicants, however we would prefer Australian based composers as we would like to physically include you in workshopping and creative days in-person if possible.

Note: To best assess your application, we ask that you be prepared to provide examples of your previous work where possible.

📌 Composer (Australia)
🏢 Axeman: A Bloody New Musical
📍 Australia