Theatre Management Jobs

A theatre manager, also known as a general manager, director, or plan administrator, is typically the general manager of a theatre group. They typically also have the additional duties of an artistic director, but in truth, in most cases, manage all operational, marketing, and financial aspects of the theatre group. They are in charge of all staffing and management issues, such as leasing, productions, and budgeting. In large theatres, they are the one responsible for the day to day running of the theatre group, and for many, their most feared job!

Theatre Management Systems is a unique job in that it combines elements of many other theatre management disciplines. For example, a theatre manager will usually have extensive experience as an actor, composer, or director. The theatre manager is ultimately in control of all money and funds, making sure that the theatre is able to pay its bills each month. He or she will be responsible for booking the theatre dates, finding a quality and affordable location for shows, negotiating contracts with artists, and screening and presenting the shows that the theatre has acquired. A theatre manager must have strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with a diverse staff and possess the knowledge to juggle multiple roles, juggling numerous functions at once.

The theatre manager is generally the second highest ranked position after the general manager. Though it may be higher up on the food chain, the theatre manager does have to keep the bottom line happy by ensuring that the theatre makes a profit. Managing a theatre group includes budgeting and making sure that costs do not exceed expectations. In order to ensure that the theatre is profitable, theatre management professionals must make decisions about artistic content, ticket sales, cast and crew availability, and funding the theatre.

Many people choose to enter theatre management because they enjoy working with the public and interacting with others in a fun and exciting environment. Theatre is a visual art form that requires tact and skill to produce high quality shows each night. Theatre management is one of the few positions in the performing arts industry, where a person can obtain steady employment and work their way up through the ranks as they mature. Many theatre managers begin their careers as backstage assistants or stagehands. Once the general manager takes over, there are usually fewer backstage positions open.

As a theatre manager you have many opportunities for development including touring with an established theatre group or your own one. Your manager duties could also include directing, choreography, sound supervision, set decorating and design, marketing and promotion. You are also often required to recruit and train new theatre actors and actresses. If you are interested in becoming a theatre manager, you should consider obtaining a Master's degree in theatre management from a college that specializes in this field. This degree will provide you with the professional skills to succeed.

A successful theatre manager possesses an innate sense of theatre etiquette and protocol. These are essential elements of theatre management and can make the difference between a theatre group appreciating your efforts or tolerating you as a guest. It is important to have good people skills and be willing to take suggestions from all members of the theatre group. Your goal as a theatre manager is to assist the artistic team by providing them with the resources they need to create the best productions every year.