Production Dept.

Crew Chief
Technical Director
Carpenter
Master Electrician
Electrician

Here's where we get to build things. Climb ladders and put things up. Get our hands dirty using various large tools. If the designers can draw it, we can build it. And if WE can't, it can't be done!
Theater technicians are some of the most versatile people around. What other area in life get exposed to so many different things? From wood to plastics to Styrofoam to metal. We work with things that are not designed for how we use them. Using drainage pipe to carry smoke and fog.

And let's not get started on what can be done with gaffer's tape!
(duct tape for those who are more budget challenged.)
Gaffer's tape & Vise Grips
That was my toolkit for my old car. Memories.

    We have a job to do. We, like the designers, have to work as a team. Scheduling the entire process comes down to one person. This person's title depends on your companies roster. The Production Manager is just that, the manager of the entire production. Some companies have a company manager. The company mgr. deals with company stuff-paychecks is the one that most people look for this person for.
    For theaters that have a technical director (schools too) and a production mgr. it's the TD who deals with all the tech stuff. Usually, the TD is in charge of everything technical that goes on during that time before those actors show up. The stage manager deals with everything technical that may come into contact with an actor during the show. Why? Because the SM is working with the director and the actors during rehearsals and would/should know what and where each actor is supposed to be.
    Many theater have the TD be responsible for everything regarding the set.
    The master electrician will be in charge of everything that can give you a shock. (Or get you wet. Yup. But that's another page.)
    The costume people be responsible for where all the quick changes are done.

Well, I'll tell you. This doesn't always work very well. Someone has to be in charge of keeping this all straight. I've seen it back stage when everyone gets in each other's way. It's not pretty!

How do you choose who's in charge? The person who knows the most about it all. In my position as TD, I'm actually functioning as the production manager as well. Yes, I know a lot about a lot of things relating to theater. I know how to build, hang and focus lights, setup and run a sound board and even sew. To be a good team mate, you should know a little about what everybody does. Until you can become a teammate, you'll have trouble becoming the one in charge. Hmm. I suppose you could walk around with the clipboard telling everyone what to do. This works once you've gained the respect of those working with you.

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