Stage production workers involving television jobs have developed as theatrical productions have grown. At first, when theatrical performances were done with little scenery or few props, the production workers would have relatively simple functions. But, as changeable scenery and extravagant costumes came into vogue in eighteenth century Europe, the demands on stagehands became greater. Props had to be placed in the correct location and stages had to be transformed from ‘forests’ to ‘deserts,’ often while the audience looked on. The development of the curtain removed the stagehands from the limelight, but as larger stages became the norm, lighting, microphones, and other technical concerns became important for a TV job presentation. Stage production workers now not only work in theater, but also work on television productions, directing the performances, building and changing sets, and controlling the lighting and sound effects.
Behind the Scenes Stage Jobs
In shows and in their whole TV careers, stage production workers are involved in all aspects of a performance, from designing the costumes and sets, to building, placing, and removing scenery. Specific responsibilities vary according to the job title. In small productions, stage workers must be able to do a variety of tasks, while in larger productions, such as those on Broadway, many have specific technical responsibilities, such as controlling lighting and sound effects. Specific professional responsibilities include the following: concert or lecture hall managers - who are responsible for the smooth running of the theater during the performance. They supervise employees, such as the box office cashiers, ticket takers, and ushers, who interact with the audience at the theater. They also oversee the maintenance of the physical facilities (both inside and outside the theater) and ensure that the theater is clean. Managers are often responsible for counting and depositing money from ticket sales and they also usually order food and other supplies for the refreshment counter as well as other supplies needed for the upkeep of the theater. Managers also often work with the stage director to get any additional crew members of stage materials needed for the performance if needed on short notice. Managers are on hand before and during a performance to answer customer questions and handle any last minute problems.
In TV production jobs, stage directors are responsible for coordinating and overseeing all aspects of a theatrical performance ready for live spotlight in television. They meet with playwrights or script writers and discuss how to present the play in the most effective manner. Producers, set and costume designers, and stage managers, are then consulted about such issues as the selection of actors and actresses, scenery and set design, and a host of other details. Stage directors then formulate a budget, production schedule, and set-design proposals. Stage directors supervise rehearsals, making sure the play has the right ‘feeling.’ They instruct actors and actresses on stage positioning and the proper delivery of their parts. Lighting, special effects, and costumes are all scrutinized and decisions are made as to how to best utilize them in the production. Directors refine these decisions during rehearsals and practice performances, and sometimes changes are made based on critical reviews of the actual performances. Stage directors must keep the producer up to date on the status of a show, including any particular problems or concerns and how closely the show is sticking to the projected budget. Meanwhile, road production general managers oversee and coordinate the business and operational aspects of a theatrical company while it is on tour. They work with local unions to hire stagehands and work with local officials to ensure that the proper performance permits are secured. They also inspect the theater to make sure that scenery and other set design specifications conform to the needs of the performers. Road production general managers have various administrative duties, such as accounting for expenditures and receipts, and arranging accommodations for the cast and crew. Road production general managers are responsible for planning newspaper advertisements and other promotional announcements for the production. They maintain good public relations and may work with community groups to promote attendance and otherwise ensure the success of the road production.
Educational Preparation
Furthermore, in a large TV production, a costume designer may supervise several assistants. These assistants help in all aspects of the job, including the locating of such hard-to-find clothing items as hats, wigs, and gloves. Likewise, costume designers should pursue a graduate in design of fine arts. They should have a sense of aesthetics, and have the manual dexterity to work with fabric.
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