A Production Manager works with the management team, technical crew and Designers to make sure the technical elements of a show are completed safely, on time and on budget. Production Managers work on a variety of different shows for a theatre season.
Although similar, there is a difference between a Production Manager and a Stage Manager. A Stage Manager liaises with different departments throughout the day and make sure everything is running smoothly, whereas a Production Manager liaises with different departments to ensure decisions being made are within budgets and everything is working safely.
What are the main responsibilities of a Production Manager?
The responsibilities of a Production Manager can vary and they can begin from the audition process and rehearsals of a production, through to the first night of performances and to when the show has finished its run. These responsibilities can include:
- Creating and maintaining a production schedule for each show
- Maintaining contact information
- Organising additional meetings for cast and production staff
- Working closely with Directors and other department heads to make decisions regarding set, costume, lighting and other aspects of a production and ensure these are within the budget of the production
- Keeping stage and backstage areas organised
- Ensuring decisions made regarding the set of a production are carried out safely
- Prepare budgets and monitor accurate expenses
- Create construction drawings for all scenery elements
What qualifications do I need to be a Production Manager?
Normally, a Production Manager will have a good knowledge of technical theatre. It is usually a requirement that you have a formal qualification in technical theatre or any related subjects such as:
- Performance production
- Technical backstage
- Stage management
- Lighting
- Events management
- Business studies
What skills do I need to be a Production Manager?
You need to have the right personality for this type of work as you’re dealing with a number of different departments and people. You will need the following skills to make you and ideal candidate for this job role:
- Good management of people and finances
- Well organised and able to remain calm and clear-headed at all times
- Good communication skills, both written and verbal
- Can work well to deadlines
- An understanding of technical aspects of the production
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