Production Roles
Want to get involved in a production, but you're not sure what to expect?
Director
The director is in charge of pulling together all elements of a production right up until the point of opening night. They are responsible for the selection of cast and crew, and guiding them through rehearsals to develop their characters and stage presence. They work with all other teams during the rehearsal period to ensure things run smoothly.
Actors
Every production needs actors! Whether you're an experienced actor or just starting out, you will be guided by the director to develop your character and stage presence.
You will have the support of the backstage crew to help with remembering lines (prompting), costume changes and scene changes.
Production Manager
The production manager is in charge of all the day-to-day running of the production. Their responsibilities include the production licencing agreements, coordination with funders (if applicable), marketing, ticketing, stocktakes, roster scheduling, any maintenance required, and catering.
Backstage Crew
The backstage crew consists of a number of team members who are responsible for a range of areas in a production. The team includes:
Prompt: assists the actors during productions to keep them on track if they forget their lines.
Sound/lighting: responsible for the visual elements of stage lighting, and the sound elements of music and SFX.
Front-of-house: responsible for greeting patrons at the front door on production nights, taking tickets, showing them to their seats and introducing the production.
Stage Manager
The stage manager is in charge of organising the backstage crew, including the prompt, curtains, lighting/SFX, and other backstage. They work with the director to coordinate everything during the rehearsal period. On performance nights, the stage manager will coordinate the cast and crew, ensuring the production moves seamlessly for the audience.
Set Design / Props
Any production needs a set and props. Those responsible for this area can get their hands dirty building the set, or get their creativity going with props for the actors and on-stage. The team includes:
Set design/construction: responsible for constructing the set to the design and requirements indicated by the director.
Costumes & Props: responsible for ensuring each actor has their appropriate costumes (and sometimes designing), and organising props for actors and the stage.