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What Does a Production Manager Do?
A production manager is in charge of the technical side of a show. They are in charge of everything it takes to make the production happen. This means they oversee everything related to sound, lights, video, and staging.
Their work starts long before the band ever arrives at the venue. They read the band’s technical rider to see exactly what equipment is needed. Then, they talk to the venue to make sure that gear is ready.
If the venue does not have the right equipment, the production manager will rent it. They also hire local crew members to help set everything up.
They make sure the physical show can actually happen.
Planning Before the Show
The biggest part of a production manager’s job happens before the concert day. This phase is called advancing the show.
During this time, they create a budget for the production. They figure out how much it will cost to rent lights, hire stagehands, and transport gear. They must keep costs under control while making sure the show looks and sounds great.
They also make a detailed schedule for the day of the show. This schedule tells everyone when to load in the equipment, when to eat, and when to start the soundcheck. Every single minute of the day is planned out by the production manager. This careful planning keeps the whole crew happy and safe.
Production Manager vs. Stage Manager
A production manager and a stage manager have different jobs, but they work together very closely.
A production manager looks at the big picture of the whole tour or event. They handle the budget, hire the crew, and do all the planning weeks in advance. They are like the general of an army.
A stage manager is focused only on the stage itself. Their job is mostly a day-of execution role. They make sure the bands get on and off the stage on time during the concert. They are the ones telling the musicians when it is time to play.
However, on smaller tours, one person might do both jobs. A production manager can easily step in to fill the role of a stage manager when needed.