Stage Production Workers

Employers

The Theatre Communications Group reports that approximately 160,000 artists, administrators, and technical production staff were employed in nonprofit theaters in 2018. Stage production workers and technicians may be employed by theater, dance, music, and other performing arts companies. They more often receive full-time employment from companies that have their own facilities, although companies that tour year-round often need to keep technical workers on staff. In addition, managers of performing arts facilities, such as theaters, opera houses, arenas, or auditoriums, may hire full-time technicians. Often, technical workers are not hired by a single employer; many find work with different companies and/or facility managers on a freelance basis.

Starting Out

Competition is keen for nearly all positions associated with theatrical productions, so get as much experience and become as versatile a worker as possible. It is often necessary to begin working on a volunteer basis or start in a position unrelated to the desired field. Many people who want to work in stage production end up in other professions because of the great difficulty in securing satisfying jobs.

Job seekers should not be discouraged by the tight labor market. In New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, publications specifically about local activities in the theater and television industries are an excellent source of information that may lead to jobs. In many cities, local newspapers regularly list production plans for area community theater groups. Sometimes college internships in theater jobs or recommendations from drama teachers can lead to permanent employment.