ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER / PROPS

(ASM) – works with the Stage Manager (SM) and Props Crew Head (PCH) under the technical director’s guidance. Usually, two-to-four (2 - 4) ASMs are needed for a Mainstage production. There are two (2) distinct roles to this position: 1. assists the PCH in gathering the props for productions and, with the Stage Manager, gathers the “rehearsal props” for use. Shopping may be involved so having access to a vehicle is helpful. 2. assists the Stage Manager during rehearsal as needed and, during the run of the production, work in concert with the Stage Manager to assure the smooth operation of the backstage areas. Property Crew Head (PCH): Property Crew Heads have a lot of responsibility. Previous experience as an Assistant Stage Manager/Props and/or in THA 110 Stagecraft or THA 310 Stage Design would be helpful. The PCH works with the designer and director under the guidance of the technical director and is responsible for locating all properties used in productions. These are the items used on stage that are not part of the set, and may be pulled from stock, purchased, borrowed, built, painted, or found. This may include shopping at antique, junk, thrift stores, etc. Having access to a vehicle is almost essential. The PCH handles money spent on purchases for productions and keeps record of what’s spent. These records are turned in to the Technical Director as the purchases occur (at the end of the production). During the production the PCH “runs” the props backstage and makes repairs as needed. Light Crew Head (LCH): Light Crew Heads have great responsibilities for which previous experience as a light technician and/or THA 211 Stage Lighting is helpful. The LCH works under the guidance of the lighting designer (LD) and is responsible for implementing design decisions of the LD. The LCH organizes the lighting technicians that make up the hang/focus crew, trains them in proper procedure, prepares lighting equipment for use, schedules hang/focus sessions, runs the hang/focus sessions, locates/purchases any color media, patterns, rentals, and special equipment, keeps record of expenditures, takes notes during the cue setting, tech and dress rehearsals, makes changes needed by the LD. During the run of the production the LCH is responsible for completion of a sound and light check and repair of any problems before each performance. Dresser/Wardrobe Assistant: This is an important position for the smooth running of the production and can be done by someone at any experience level. Usually two or three wardrobe assistants are needed per production, working under the supervision of the Costume Designer (CD). During the production they assist actors in changing costumes, keeping track of costume pieces, and assisting with wigs, hair, and make-up and occasional photo calls. They are also responsible for maintaining and cleaning the costumes after each performance. Any addition responsibilities are assigned by the CD. • Stage black attire – pants, tops, sensible shoes for running in an emergency – plus flash lights; • No one leaves unless dismissed by the Costume Designer

Lighting Technician / Follow-Spot Operator / Board Operator: These crew members work with the LCH during preparation of the lighting instruments, hang, focus, and gel the instruments, prepare special effects, program the light board, run the board during the technical and dress rehearsals

and performances, assist in the light and sound check, and run the follow-spots. Prior experience is not necessary. Sound Crew: These crew members are to run the theatre sound systems during productions. This includes locating sound cues, operating the playback equipment, and caring for the headset system. They may also work with actor and band microphones for a musical production. A specialized position within the sound area is the Sound Designer who creates sound designs for productions including seeking out and recording music and effects for a show. Knowledge of sound recording and playback techniques is helpful to fulfill this position. Stage Crew: This crew is not only necessary for any production, but also provides a way for those with varying levels of experience to be involved in the production process. The duties will vary from show-to-show but usually include preparation of the stage for use at each performance, set up of stage units, cleaning of the stage-set floor, and setting up the furniture. It may include construction, finishing and painting of scenery, operation of the lift/revolve system, slide or scenic projectors, fog and smoke machines and/or other special effects, and any other responsibilities as assigned by the TD.