Should a Stage Manager Consider Becoming a Production Manager?
Hey there! So, it’s my first day in a new job. You probably know, if you’ve been following me, that my last job wasn’t exactly what I’d hoped it would be. Before leaving, I had this interesting chat with the Stage Manager at my old workplace.
When she found out I was switching back to stage management instead of sticking with production management, she just laughed! Surprisingly, she’d never wanted to dabble in production management. Earlier, I’d found out one of our building managers, formerly a Stage Manager, had tried production management but absolutely couldn’t stand it.
Basically, I had to find out the hard way too. Still, their words reassured me – I didn’t feel bad about the past year anymore.
If you’re a Stage Manager, thinking of trying your hand at production management, here’s a heads up:
You’ll need stellar technical skills to stay afloat without constant stress. I ended up dealing with light setups, project plans, and various technical specifics more than anytime since my college days. Even complex tasks like hiring equipment came my way.
Get ready to wrestle with union agreements – the most complicated documents I’ve ever dealt with.
Handling payroll is a task that’s nothing short of a hassle.
You’ll miss the hands-on, ground action, which was a downside for me.
Crew members can be as unpredictable as actors, just with less drama. Expect to be blamed for things that aren’t your fault – though the experience will feel oddly familiar.
Talking with fellow Stage Managers, a change could be something like Company Management or Tour Coordinating. I’m keeping that in mind for future job hunts; stage managing seems more suitable for me.
So, what’s up with me now? I’m a Stage Manager/Lighting Director for Dinosaur Train Live. If you’re a parent of little ones, or a dinosaur fan, check out our tour schedule! My work hours might be hectic, but I’d be happy to meet up with fellow bloggers as our tour travels America.
Also, by the end of May, I expect to be a dinosaur expert for Jeopardy!
So, should a stage manager switch careers to production management? Not always, it seems.
Related Reads:
1. [Online Stage Management Resources]
(Posted on August 14, 2020, in Stage Management)
2. [What’s Next After Being a Stage Manager]
(Posted on February 17, 2017, in Stage Management)
3. [Where to Find Stage Management Jobs]
(Posted on April 3, 2017, in Stage Management)