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What Is the Production Staff for a Stage Play?

Bringing a theater performance from a script to production requires the talents of many people. Even small productions have many aspects that need to be addressed, and the process can be draining and stressful, but potentially extremely rewarding. Each component of forming the production, such as props, lighting and set design, requires agreement among many people.
  1. Multiple Roles

    • A production staff includes the stage manager, assistant stage manager, technical director, set designer, scenic artist/set painter, master carpenter, set crew, lighting designer, master electrician, lighting crew, light board operator, costume designer, master stitcher/tailor/seamstress, costume crew, makeup artist, choreographer, props manager, run crew, orchestra manager, publicity manager, graphic designer, publicity crew, program designer, house manager and ticket manager. The production staff is basically responsible for every aspect of the production other than acting.

    Stage Manager

    • The stage manager works with the technical crew, instructing all the lighting and sound cues on the day of performance and during rehearsals. He instructs the run crew, which changes the props according to the requirements of the setting. The stage manager phones crew and performers who are needed at rehearsal or for the performance. When the performers have memorized their lines and are off-book, the stage manager must be on hand to give them their appropriate cues when needed.

    Look and Feel

    • Several individuals are involved with the look and feel of the set. The set designer transfers the scripted scene on to the stage. Once the design is complete, a construction crew leads the assembly. A decorating crew then adds their touches to the project. Working with a lighting and sound crew, a technical director develops ideas for lighting, sound and other requirements. A props person is then told by the technical director what is needed for the production, and she is responsible for purchasing props or having the crew make them. A costume designer then needs to clad the actors and a makeup person adds final touches to their faces.

    Marketing

    • A house manager is responsible for every aspect of the production that involves the audience, whether it's organizing ticket sales, arranging seating or arranging for refreshments. He works with the ticket manager, who is responsible for ensuring the tickets are available and sold. A ticket manager works with webmasters who facilitate online ticket reservations. Meanwhile, a program designer collects biographical information from members of the cast, crew and orchestra, and ensures that it is copied accurately to the programs.

Stage Productions

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