Hello Production Team and Designers!
Below are descriptions of each of the jobs required in a production team. Many of these jobs can be combined (like lights and sound) so if you are interested in multiple positions, have no fear! In addition, if there are multiple candidates for a position, it is possible for assistants/co-designers to be appointed.
If you are interested in one of these positions, please submit your application to Ms. Ruggles before the end of the school day on the due date. Each production has a different due date, so please check the production page for more details.
Fall Show Application
Spring Musical Application
GHS Technician Handbook
Stage Manager
A stage manager’s job is mainly one of organization. As a stage manager you will work to keep many aspects of the show running smoothly. During rehearsals, you will help keep track of cast conflicts, take blocking notes, track scenery and costume shifts, keep a prop list, give line notes, and help keep rehearsals running on schedule. You will also help create and distribute the production calendar, weekly rehearsal schedules, and daily rehearsal calls. During tech rehearsals, you will play a large role in helping integrate the technical aspects of the show into the performance. Stage Managers call the show during performances, as well as making sure the stage is set and the actors are in places. You keep track of everything that happens at rehearsals and generally act as an assistant to the director.
Set Designer
Set design is an important part of almost any theatre production, as almost every show will utilize some sort of set, however minimal. The primary function of a set, of course, is to provide the audience with some context for the play, but it can also be a chance to create something stunning to draw in the audience. As set designer, you not only have to create a concept that is in line with the director’s vision, but you also have to decide how it will be built, painted, and decorated. The look of the stage as a whole is largely your responsibility. During the rehearsal process, you will work with the entire production team to create a cohesive look for the show. You will be required to attend every set build to help execute your vision.
Prop Coordinator
The props coordinator is the person in charge of obtaining, making, maintaining, and returning all the props in the play. The props person needs to find out from the director and set designer: what they want, where they want it, how they want it, and what may need to be made. It is the responsibility of the props person to keep track of the condition of all props, especially borrowed ones, to ensure they last through the rehearsal and performance process.
Lighting Designer
The lighting designer is responsible for creating the conceptual lighting design as well as implementing the design in the actual space. This involves deciding which lights to use and where to place them, which color gels and effects to use, as well as the practical knowledge of hanging and focusing the lights and cueing the show. A lighting design must take into account the design of the set, the mood of the play, subtleties and dynamics in scenes within the play, and the blocking of the actors throughout. You will work closely with the set and costume designers to keep within the world of the play. In addition, stage management will make you aware of any specific blocking choices that need special lighting attention.
Sound Designer
The sound designer is in charge of anything that is heard during the production. This includes any music and sound effects as well as the voices of the actors. You will works closely with the director in deciding what is appropriate for a show. Most likely, you will run the sound board during the show, as you have the best knowledge of sound cues and levels. In addition, you will be responsible for maintaining and organizing any body mics on actors during the run of the show.
Costume/Makeup Designer
The costume designer is the person in charge of designing, making, obtaining, organizing, and fixing costumes for a play. You make sure that every actor that walks onto the stage has articles of clothing appropriate to the play, time period, and the visions of the production team. You will work primarily with the director and the actors, though you’ll want to check colors with the set, paint, and light designers as well, pretty early on. Costume designers are responsible for being at tech week and performances to make sure that everything works. You are also responsible for any hair or makeup decisions for actors regarding the overall look of the character. Just as the props coordinator is in charge of all the props, the costume designer is in charge of all the costumes (rented ones, made ones, etc) until the play is over.
Choreographer
The choreographer is the person in charge of designing, making, and teaching all dance and movement for a production. A choreographer works with dancers to interpret and develop ideas and transform them into the finished performance. When working with a director, the choreographer must gain a full understanding of the director's vision of the show, including style and pacing, and must be familiar with the script and music. An effective choreographer is one who supports the director's vision, so that all elements of movement and dance work as part of the larger picture. As part of the production's support team, the choreographer must work closely with the musical director, costume designer, set designer and lighting designer, to make sure that all stage movement is compatible with musical cues, costuming, sets and lighting.
