WEEK 1: STAFFING A PRODUCTION COMPANY

The Difference Between A Receiving House And A Producing House

A producing theatre produces its own 'in-house' theatre productions. The designing, building and rehearsing for the production is usually done within the theatre company's own venue. They normally have their own set-building workshops and wardrobe departments at the theatre or nearby. However, sometimes external builders and suppliers might be involved. Often, The Artistic Director decides on the programme for the season. They choose the plays that will be performed. Then, The Creative Team are employed; The Director, as well as The Set, Lighting, Sound and Costume Designers. Their work begins on designing the production. Later casting, rehearsals and continuation of the design process follow, until the production is ready to open to the the public.

The Royal National Theatre and Regent Park's Open Air Theatre are examples of producing theatres.

A receiving theatre 'recieves' productions that have been produced elsewhere- either by a producing theatre that has opted to take one of their productions on tour, or by a theatre company that doesn't have a theatre space of its own and produces productions solely for touring. Receiving theatres include West End venues, which receive 'transfers' (productions that have achieved a successful run or tour outside of The West End, that are brought by producers and shown in London venues, in the hope of gaining more success).

The Apollo Victoria Theatre and The Lyceum Theatre, in The West End are examples of receiving theatres.

A presenting house selects only productions that are in line with the theatre’s artistic policies and that appeal to the theatre’s particular audiences. They usually provide a full range of services, such as marketing, technical, and box office services. Presenting theatres often provide full programmes of high-standard professional events, offer educational opportunities, and attract a loyal and frequently-attending audience. They are run by an Artistic Director, who is responsible for the artistic policies of the theatre.

The Northcott Theatre, Exeter and The Maltings Theatre, Berwick are examples of presenting houses.



A Production Company's Staffing Structure

Here is a link to th website that I found The Theatre Production Company Structure from:
http://www.controlbooth.com/threads/theatre-organization-chart.3861/

Artist Director-
Develops the artistic vision of a production and often the programme that is presented in the theatre. If they work for a producing theatre or production company they direct the productions. Their role is managerial and creative. They must hire technical staff (e.g. the production manager). They must work closely with writers, choreographers, composers, performers, designers and technical staff.

They need creative vision, experience at director level in theatre or performing arts, experience in people management and budgeting skills.

There are no specific qualifications needed to become an artistic director, but they need to have considerable experience of working in the theatre. It is good to have a diploma in drama or a Bachelor of Arts majoring in drama or dance. Completing courses in theatre production, arts administration or business management are also useful when applying for this job role. It is also helpful to have GCSEs/ A Levels in English, drama, classics, history, creative and performing arts, music, English literature, dance and extended experience of working within the performing arts industry. It is good to have a degree, foundation degree or HND in creative and performing arts, drama and theatre studies, music and arts in the community.

Experience in directing or producing plays or films, choreographing and/ or with other theatre or film work, such as acting or writing plays is very important. You should gain practical theatre experience in acting, stage management and, particularly, direction in amateur or fringe theatre. Consider other roles, for example in the wardrobe department, with the stage crew, or in the lighting or sound departments. All theatre experience is useful and provides you with knowledge of how the different theatre departments work (good to know when directing a play).

Here is the link to an application form for the role of an Artistic Director:
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=8&ved=0CGcQFjAH&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.communityni.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2FApplication%2520Form%2520Artistic%2520Director%2520March%25202012.doc&ei=HHAfU9CEMcyAhAfdoIDICA&usg=AFQjCNEY4Sg4_2sQjd8XrbCCL4EKLMYhoA&sig2=r__ipNnvQrL9JVNktpaF0A&bvm=bv.62788935,d.d2k
 
Executive Director-
The equivalent of a Producer for a theatrical show. They organise the financial and administrative elements of the company (or of a production, in the case of individually produced shows). They supervise the business aspects of the company or production: ticket sales, house management, refreshments, programs, etc.

They require fund raising skills, budgeting skills and communication skills.

Most Executive Directors have an economics, management, finance or another business-related Bachelor's degree.

You must have extensive experience of working in the business field. First you must take a lower managerial position and work yourself up within a corporation, to a senior-level managerial position.

http://theatrebristol.net/jobs/liz-wright-marketing-and-communications-officer-chief-executive-dance-base-edinburgh

Production Manager-
Is responsible for Supervises the stagehands, lighting and sound technicians, as well as the stage management team.

This job requires practical and technical skills, computing skills, organisational skills, communication skills, the ability to act decisively, the ability to grasp concepts easily, problem-solving capabilities, the ability to pay attention to detail, excellent negotiating skills, excellent time management skills, the ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines, good physical health, the ability to motivate others, self-confidence, the ability to work in a logical, systematic manner and budgeting skills.

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, degrees in mechanical engineering, process engineering, business/management, electrical and electronic engineering, materials science/technology, transport/distribution/logistics, chemistry, physics and/or biochemistry are useful for this career path. Qualifications in civil engineering and business studies are also helpful.

Most graduates begin their career as trainees or in junior posts such as production supervisors, material planners, inventory controls etc.

Here is a link to a course on Production Management:
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=3&ved=0CGIQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.productionguild.com%2Fupload%2Ftraining%2Fcpd-training%2Fasst-co-ords-ii%2Fpg-prog-asst-coords-ii-app-pack.pdf&ei=ZncfU7utKMmqhQefqIDgAQ&usg=AFQjCNF6Yp-zETG3Mw7XNKEMA_tyR6uDwg&sig2=R20FysQJwRlhXpi2esCopA

Resident Director-
Supports the development of new theatrical work- whether it's with professionals or young people. They are often part of the rehearsal process, as they work with actors and production staff on the development of new shows. They work with technicians, marketing staff, and the front-of-house team.

They must have good people skills, communication skills and people management skills.

For this job role, it is a good Idea to have a diploma in drama, a Bachelor's degree of arts and an English degree.

It is good to have worked in office jobs at arts organisations (e.g. the finance department). Working in production arts (e.g. as part of the stage crew) is also beneficial.

Previous directing experience is usually expected.

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=4&ved=0CEkQFjAD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mcsoxford.org%2Fresource.aspx%3Fid%3D9635&ei=9HofU6TuM4yShQf834GACg&usg=AFQjCNH3SqlXPORWod-RkZf1yipdO61uRQ&sig2=I3bYPscnUCJUlecWLxGuQg&bvm=bv.62788935,d.bGQ

Company Manager-
Responsible for everything that happens off-stage, such as cast welfare and logistics. They take care of the travelling, accommodation and day-to-day needs of the acting, design and technical company members. Company managers make most of the financial decisions related to a production.

They require good people skills, the ability to work well in a team and as an individual, the ability to work well within a fast- paced environment, the ability to spot and solve problems quickly, communication skills and computer skills.

Usually the minimum requirements are an associate degree and between one and three years of administration and events management experience.There are theatre management courses at college. You can earn a Bachelor's degree in theatre management also, which usually covers; theatrical processes, performing arts management, financial management, marketing, human resources and strategic planning.

It is likely that  you will have to work your way up through a range of work in theatres, including managing specific functions such as front of house). Voluntary or paid work at a theatre (in the theatre bar or box office), work shadowing, membership of a theatre group, experience of performing in or managing stage productions, either on the artistic or technical side, and involvement in theatre work at university or college are all highly desirable for this field of work.

http://www.gedling.gov.uk/aboutus/jobstraining/currentgedlingvacancies/jobtitle,27687,en.php

Business Manager-
Drives others to work. They are thinkers, who develop, evaluate, and put into operation measures, in order to run a major business efficiently and to make a large profit.

They require the ability to make good decisions, good communication skills, the ability to manage time and projects, the ability to network with different people and groups, the ability to learn and understand new technologies, the ability to develop and maintain solid working relationships, to resolve issues creatively and in a timely manner, the ability to effect change and execute proposals, to negotiate and the ability to achieve set goals and targets. They need working knowledge in one or more of the following; sales, marketing, and public relations; research, operations analysis, data processing, mathematics, statistics, and economics; production; finance; accounting, auditing, tax, and budgeting; purchasing and personnel.

Usually the minimum qualification for this job is an undergraduate degree in business, accounting, administration etc.

You should have previous people management experience. Past working experience in a relevant role. Experience of successful project management, which will help you to utilise relevant tools and techniques to ensure consistent delivery and experience within the business field.

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFEQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kingston.ac.uk%2Fundergraduate%2Fcourses%2Fhow-to-apply%2Fdocuments%2FManagement_in_Practice_BA.pdf&ei=84EfU9_lAdPwhQeLkoHYDA&usg=AFQjCNGi5Z-W2Iz6jSRSPSqLg46WPPkS9w&sig2=ql6-oWVZwjTfGUlJ41d4Xg

Marketing Director-
Responsible for the overall marketing operations of an organisation or business.

The job requires skills in the creative aspect of advertising, the ability to be imaginative and enthusiastic. To have an eye for trends and products, the ability to think clearly, communication skills, literacy skills and budgeting skills.

Most of the people that apply for this job have a Degree or Higher National Diploma in marketing but the role is always open to graduates who have other qualifications such as business, economics, mathematics and computing.  You can study for a Certificate, Advanced Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing and the Communication. Advertising & Marketing Foundation (CAM) offers a qualification that covers marketing, advertising, public relations, media, research and behavioural studies, sales promotion and direct marketing.

It is recommended that you have previous experience as an executive marketing director or assistant, or in a specialist role, such as advertising or brand managing. Working in the related fields of sales or within a marketing department is a good idea.

http://www.artsjobs.org.uk/index.php?id=25&ne_post_id=121614

Technical Director-

A senior technical person. They usually have the highest level of skill within a specific technical field and might be seen as an expert in that industry. They must make sure that the technical equipment in the theatre is functional, maintained and safe e.g. lighting and sound equipment. They are responsible for the overall organisation of the technical production process. They generate the necessary working drawings for construction, make budget estimations, research and purchase materials. They must schedule and supervise, build crews, handle conflicts between different departments and organising the strike and clean-up for that production.

They require organisational skills, management skills, technical and practical skills, budgeting skills, the ability to adjust actions in relation to others', the ability to motivate, develop, and direct people as they work, the ability to identifying the best people for the job, communication skills, the ability to watch gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly, the ability to control operations of equipment or systems, the ability to monitor/assess performance of yourself, other individuals, or organisations to make improvements or take corrective action, the ability to teach others how to do things, literacy skills, the ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems and the ability to consider the relative costs and benefits of potential actions, to choose the most appropriate one.

Most technical directors have a college degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics or physics. Some may have a Business, Administration or Engineering Management degree.

Technical directors generally work their way up to the position, learning the roles of lighting, rigging, set and sound technicians through years of hands-on experience.

http://www.youngvic.org/jobs/technical-director

Stage Manager-
Stage management is the practise of organising and coordinating a theatrical production. It involves organising the production and coordinating communications between various people (e.g. between director and backstage crew, or actors and production management). A stage manager has the overall responsibility for stage management and the smooth execution of a production.

They require communication and organisational skills, a sharp eye for detail, the ability to stay calm in a crisis, persuasiveness, patience, tact, the ability to deal with 'artistic temperaments', awareness of current technologies, the ability to work under pressure, especially in the run-up to a performance, the ability to solve problems, the ability to think on their feet, confidence, decision-making abilities, negotiation skills, stamina, to cope with long hours during technical and dress rehearsals,and for touring, people skills and computer skills.

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, a degrees in performing arts, music or experience with drama/theatre studies are very useful. Some drama schools offer degrees in theatre stage management and technical theatre. A HND in performing arts or technical theatre is also accepted.

It is possible to become a stage crew member without a degree or HND, but you may then be able to work your way up to the role of an assistant stage manager and then progress further, to become a stage manager.

http://www.alra.co.uk/index.php/How-to-apply/applying-for-the-stage-management-a-technical-theatre-course.html

Box Office Treasurer-
Responsible for the operations of The Box Office under the supervision of The Business Manager. They keep records of ticked transactions and at the end of the day, they balance all Box Office business.

They require good communication and people skills, the ability to make decisions in accordance with rules, regulations, and procedures, they must be trustworthy, have mathematical skills, literacy skills, as well as computer skills.

They must have a GCSE or higher level qualification in Mathematics, English and IT.

Previous work experience as a customer service assistant is recommended. Also, it is good to have previously worked in The Box Office or in telesales.

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=4&ved=0CEQQFjAD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.local857.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F11%2FCTG-2nd-Assistant-Treasurer-Position.pdf&ei=-ZYfU5v5FIWBhAfK1oDADw&usg=AFQjCNEjJdAYMmcMQuGh2NMpcuAtuVa08w&sig2=1nmz3ZjwMVcR9qQldvmdVQ

Accountant-
A practitioner of accountancy (the measurement, disclosure or provision of assurance of financial information) that aids managers, investors etc. in making decisions about allocating resources. They keep the cash flow positive and ensure the whole organisation understands profitability.

They are required to have mathematical skills, communication skills, commercial awareness and computing skills.

It is a good idea to have a degree in the accounting body you wish to pursue (The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) or Chartered Association of Certified Accountants (ACCA)). The ACA qualification is widely recognised globally as the accounting standard. Students train by auditing small companies at first.

Some accountants work at entry-level positions with accounting or auditing firms before working as a junior associate or a sole proprietor, and then working their way up to become a licensed accountant.

http://www.accaglobal.com/applynow

Public Relations-
The practise of managing the spread of information between an individual/organisation and the public. The must speak at conferences, work with the press and communicate with employees.

Their skills include; communication skills, people skills, literacy skills, drive, competence, flexibility, the willingness to learn, excellent organisational and time management skills, the ability to multitask, the ability to cope with pressure, creativity, imagination, initiative, good teamwork skills, analytical and problem-solving skills, business awareness, a good knowledge of current affairs, social media experience and multimedia experience.

No set qualifications are required to become a public relations (PR) officer, but most entrants tend to have a degree or HND in communication and media studies, English and literary studies, business/management, marketing or politics. It is possible to take a PR degree course.

Volunteering at a local charity can give you experience of planning events, contacting media outlets and writing press releases and articles. Employers like graduates with experience of writing for student magazines or who have been involved with student radio or university societies. Joining a consultancy or in-house PR department in a junior role, such as a PR assistant, may be a good starting point. Entry as a secretary or administrator could also lead to professional opportunities.

http://www.cipr.co.uk/content/training-qualifications/cipr-qualifications/entry-criteria

House Crew-
They take the tickets from the audience members and shows them their seats. They open the doors to the entrance of the theatre and give out the programs. They show audience members where they may buy food and refreshments during intermission and show them where the restrooms are.

They need excellent people and communication skills.

The house crew (excluding managers) do not need a minimum academic qualification. Most employers prefer their staff to have a secondary school education. The front of house crew are usually trained on the job.

Many Front-Of-House Managers start out working as Ushers or box office assistants in theatres. Experience in customer service is useful, especially when combined with an interest in drama and theatre. Degrees in Business Management, Arts Administration, Arts Management and/or Drama or Theatre Studies are also beneficial when applying for the job of a Front-Of-House Manager.

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=2&ved=0CDMQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.carryonguides.org.au%2Fcrew.pdf&ei=WJ0fU76QMYHwhQfo_IC4DA&usg=AFQjCNE8zFmMn9Jq1ioB6m2dI2OLxxF7Lg&sig2=731J0gKmbAjwoQtU14DXbA

Actor-
Portrays different characters in dramatic or comic productions.

They require excellent communication skills, listening skills, punctuality and reliability, the ability to interpret and analyse roles, the ability to work well in teams, the ability to take instruction and criticism, confidence to network and follow up contacts, self-discipline and stamina to cope with long hours and learning lines, dedication, the ability to remain focused, a good memory, good timing, physical ability, the ability to manipulate the voice and previous experience of acting.

There is no single route to becoming an actor. Experience is very beneficial e.g at a local amateur dramatics group or work experience. Although the acting career is open to all A levels, GCSEs and BTEC diplomas in subjects such as English, Drama and Performing Arts are a great head start. A degree or HND in Drama or Performing Arts is even better. 

Some actors get into the industry by working as holiday camp entertainers or taking similar jobs with a tour operator or holiday resort. Others start by joining a local theatre group as a child and gaining small parts in television programmes (as extras) or adverts.

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=3&ved=0CF4QFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rada.ac.uk%2Frada_files%2Fpdfs%2Fapplication_acting_2014.pdf&ei=iqAfU-noEpKqhAfJgYHQDg&usg=AFQjCNFyD0-rZZVg9-xRLP2b1Z2DBeSArw&sig2=JfzNPMd1FVbC-Ak02addZQ

Head Usher-
Ensures that the reception and theatre areas are tidy at all times. They must supervise ushering staff and assist with managing customer service issues in the theatre and the lobby.They need to assist with the execution of appropriate health and safety, building security and emergency procedures.

They require leadership skills, communication skills, organisational skills, they must be polite and helpful, they need to have the ability to keep calm in an emergency, the ability to work as part of a team and people skills.

Although there are no formal educational entry requirements for becoming a Head Usher, some experience of dealing with people, e.g. as a shop assistant, would be useful.

http://www.atgtickets.com/jobs_details.aspx?id=4241

Telemarketer- 
Persuades customers to buy products, usually via telephone calls.

They require excellent communication skills, an outgoing personality, confidence, an understanding of technology, and people skills. They should have persistence, time management skills, customer service skills, the ability to sell to customer needs, prospecting skills, motivation for sales, the ability to handle rejection, professionalism and product knowledge.

Most employers of telemarketers offer on-the-job training, so there are no set requirements for telemarketers. However, most employers require that a telemarketer has at least a secondary school level of education. It is a good idea to take courses in Communications, Sales and Business.

It is useful to have previous experience of working in sales.

http://www.totaljobs.com/JobSeeking/Telemarketing---Telesales---IT-Hardware-Software-Services_job59000758

Scene Shop Supervisor-
Manages the construction of theatre scenery, assists in the construction, placement, and rigging of scenery for productions, takes care of general maintenance of shop machinery and tools and helps to plan and organise construction projects.

They require supervisory skills, mechanical skills, communication skills, organisational skills, technical and practical skills, the ability to read and understand floor plans, colour renderings, electrical schematics, and advanced construction plans or blueprints and the ability to instruct on material relevant to technical production labs.
 
Usually a Bachelor's degree in Theatre with an emphasis in Technical Theatre and Stage Craft is required.

they are expected to have at least two years practical work experience in technical preparation and construction of theatre scenery and stage units.

https://jobs.agencies.virginia.gov/applicants/jsp/shared/position/JobDetails_css.jsp?postingId=909045

Costume Shop Supervisor-
Selects, fits, and takes care of costumes for cast members and assist with costume changes during performances.

They require communication skills, creative vision, critical thinking skills, the ability to understand the uses and limitations of numerous types of fabric, as well methods of construction specific to the entertainment industry skills.     

It is recommended to have a college degree in theatrical design with an emphasis on costume design and fabrication and/or a Bachelor' degree in Costume Technology or another related field.

Experience of working in fashion/costume designing in education or of working in a costume shop is recommended.                             

http://www.higheredjobs.com/details.cfm?JobCode=175867522&utm_source=Indeed&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=Indeed

Prop Shop Supervisor-
Supervises prop shops- keeping the shops supplied. They also manage budgets for the props.

This job requires creative vision, practical skills, communication skills, people skills, organisational skills and budgeting skills.

Extensive theatre production experience, supervisory experience and  personal computer experience are required for this job role. At least a secondary school level of education is expected. A Bachelor's degree in the related field is good for job applications for this field of work.

Master Electrician-
Responsible for implementing the lighting design for a production, that has been drawn up by the Lighting Designer. They must assist in the preparation, hanging, connecting and focusing of stage lighting fixtures.

They require practical and technical skills, Willingness to continue learning - keeping up to date on new methods, procedures etc. and knowing when to use them, communication and people skills, as well as organisational skills. They need and understanding of electrical concepts, code and interrelated components, codes, ordinances, and a clear understanding of the basic underlying mechanics and theories of the trade, they also need to be willing to teach, train, show, and be patient.

Mathematics, physics and blueprint reading or shop working with electrical components, and computer science are great courses to take at secondary school for a head start. A degree in electronics is required. A electrician license is also required, which is generally awarded after the completion of an Apprenticeship and an exam. You need a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering, and to take the master electrician exam, you need either seven years of experience or the college degree.

It takes many years of experience of working as an electrician to become a Master Electrician.

http://www.esasafe.com/licensing/master-electrician/licensing/

Chief Sound Technician-
In charge of controlling the sound at theatre productions. They operate microphones, amplifiers and control desks to balance the sound levels and also provide background music and sound effects.

Their skills include a good sense of pitch, timing and rhythm, a knowledge of electronics and acoustics, practical and technical skills, good communication and people skills.

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, GCSEs or A-levels in maths and physics and qualifications in electronics are particularly beneficial.  Degrees/HNDs in music/sound technology, sound engineering, media technology and/or production and/or technical theatre look great on a Chief Sound Technician's job application. It is also possible to earn a degree and HND in this field.

Previous practical experience is very beneficial for this field of work. You could volunteer or find paid work at a recording or editing studio, a student or community based film or radio project,  do the rigging and sound for amateur theatre or local musicians or work for equipment manufacturers.

http://london.sae.edu/en-gb/course/7523/BABSc_(Hons)_Audio_Production_-_Degree?gclid=CK7bgc7hi70CFQEXwwodxUAAcg

Scenic Technician-
Works within a team to assemble, store, load-in, strike and maintain scenery used for the production. They finish and paint the scenery and props for the production, transport sets and props and maintain the integrity of all set designs by ensuring the set is in-line with the original design.

They must have knowledge of materials handling, installation and assembling. They must be able read and understand technical design drafting and to plan, organise, and implement scenic construction from the design drafting.

They are expected to have a secondary school level of education. It is preferred that they have a Bachelors degree in theatre, with emphasis on scenery construction.

It is also recommended that they have at least 3 years of experience in the professional scenery fabrication environment. Previous experience of working as a carpenter or scenic carpenter is preferred.

https://cmu.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?lang=en&job=30860

Costume Technician-
Involved in the construction, patterning, dyeing and painting, millinery, costume crafts, masks and wig styling.

They must be creative, have good organisational skills, good communication skills, good stamina, the ability to work under pressure to strict deadlines, good garment production skills, knowledge of textiles, practical sewing ability and practical skills.

Most Costume Technicians have a HND, degree or post-graduate qualification in a related subject such as, costume design, fashion, theatre design or performing arts (production). Further training is usually carried out whilst on the job.

Some costume technicians begin their career's as wardrobe trainees and later, progress futher, to become costume technicians.  

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.orangecoastcollege.edu%2Facademics%2Fcertificate_programs%2FPublishingImages%2FCostume%25202C%252012-13w.pdf&ei=3bEfU4yqNYaQhQeohYC4Bw&usg=AFQjCNFnUQXiYSB89ybka4h_C3At6Rp2kA&sig2=sq1HXAF2VSq6WLMZE5b07w

Electrician (Theatre)-
Responsible for the non-design aspects of the lighting in a theatrical production. They are also responsible for special effects (e.g. fog and pyrotechnics).

The job requires good practical, technical and numeracy skills, the ability to work well in a team, creativity and problem-solving skills, the ability to take instructions, awareness of health and safety, physical stamina, willingness to work long and irregular hours when necessary, knowledge of electrical systems and electronics and good communication and people skills.

For this job role you can either train as an electrician and get practical experience in production lighting, or you could take a technical theatre course at college or university. You could take a BTEC level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Production Arts, a BTEC HNC/HND in Performing Arts (Production), a drama school diploma in technical theatre or a degree in lighting design, lighting technology, performance technology or technical theatre. To qualify as an electrician you need a Level 3 Diploma in Electrotechnical Services (Electrical Maintenance), a Level 3 Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems & Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment) or a Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures), if part of an Apprenticeship. You could also do an Apprenticeship, which would combine learning on the job with study at a college or training centre. It usually takes two to four years to become fully qualified this way.You need relevant practical experience, which you may be able to find in a traineeship with a specialist lighting company.

You could gain experience in lighting equipment hire companies, work placement, theatres or concert venues, amateur theatre, or student or community film projects. Most (Theatre) Electricians start off as Trainee or Assistant Electricians.

An Example Of A Production Company

Here is a list of Regent Park's Open Air Theatre team:
http://openairtheatre.com/

Timothy SheaderArtistic Director
William VillageExecutive Director
Andy LockeCommercial Director
Rachel DanielDeputy Head of Visitor
Services and Estates
Emma FriendAdministrator & Assistant
to the Artistic Director / Education co-ordinator
Jo HawkesHead of Administration & Assistant to the Executive
Direct
Marianne RichardsonPartnerships and
Events Manager
Senior Marketing and
Digital Officer
Elinor WilliamsHead of Visitor Services
and Estates

It is a producing theatre, and so the building and rehearsing for their productions are done within the theatre. It was the venue for plays such as 'The Sound Of Music' and 'To Kill A Mockingbird'.  

Here is the production company for 'The Sound Of Music' at Regent Park's Open Air Theatre:
Director – Rachel Kavanaugh
Set & Costume Designer – Peter McKintosh
Choreographer – Alistair David
Musical Director – Stephen Ridley
Lighting Designer – Tim Mitchell
Orchestrator – Chris Walker
Sound Designer – Nick Lidster for Autograph
Casting Director – Pippa Ailion CDG
Casting Director (children) – Jessica Ronane CDG
Voice and Text Coach – Barbara Houseman
Assistant Director – Fiona Dunn
Assistant Musical Director – Peter McCarthy