How to Be Dance Company Production Manager - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 30, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Dance Company Production Manager is critical to the success of any production. They are responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of all the elements that go into a successful show, including casting, budgeting, scheduling, and resource management. With their knowledge and skill, they ensure that all aspects of the production come together on time and on budget.

Effectively managing these tasks requires attention to detail, organizational skills, and a creative approach to problem solving. As a result, Dance Company Productions can be successfully pulled off with minimal stress and maximum efficiency.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. To become a Dance Company Production Manager, you will need to earn a bachelor's degree in either dance, production management, or a related field.
Gain Experience. Many production managers start out as assistants or interns in the dance production field. It is important to gain experience in the field by working with different types of productions, such as musicals, plays, and concerts.
Develop Technical Skills. As a Dance Company Production Manager, you will need to have strong technical skills in order to manage the production process. You should be knowledgeable in sound systems, lighting, video, and other technical aspects of production.
Become Certified. Becoming certified as a Production Manager is not required, but it can help you stand out from other applicants. There are many organizations that offer certifications in Production Management.
Network. Networking is an important part of finding a job as a Dance Company Production Manager. Attend industry events and join professional organizations in order to meet other professionals who can help you find job opportunities.
Apply for Jobs. Once you have obtained the necessary education and experience, you can apply for jobs as a Dance Company Production Manager. You can find job postings in the newspaper, online job boards, and on company websites.

The Production Manager of a Dance Company is responsible for many aspects of the production process, from the selection of personnel to the careful scheduling of rehearsals and performances. To ensure that the production runs smoothly and that everyone involved is kept updated and capable, the Production Manager must be organized, detail-oriented and have a clear understanding of the company's mission and expectations. Effective communication between staff and crew is essential, as is a thorough knowledge of industry standards and regulations.

the Production Manager must be able to think on their feet and solve problems quickly when unexpected issues arise. By staying informed and up-to-date with new technologies, production trends, and other developments in the industry, Production Managers can ensure that the company's productions are successful and engaging for its audiences.

You may want to check Dance Company Booking Agent, Dance Company Touring Lighting Designer, and Dance Company Stage Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Create and manage production budget
Coordinate and oversee all production elements including stage design, lighting, and sound
Manage and maintain production schedules, ensuring all deadlines are met
Oversee staff and contractors to ensure production runs smoothly
Negotiate and secure contracts with vendors, venues, and other production personnel
Supervise the installation and maintenance of all production equipment
Manage technical rehearsals and ensure all technical aspects of the production are running smoothly
Liaise with marketing and promotion team to ensure successful promotion of the production
Provide administrative support and document production activities
Monitor the performance of the production to identify and address any issues

Skills and Competencies to Have

Strong organizational and project management skills.
Ability to delegate tasks effectively.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Knowledge of budgeting and accounting principles.
Working knowledge of relevant software and industry technologies.
Ability to plan and coordinate events, rehearsals and performances.
Experience in managing personnel, including scheduling and payroll.
Ability to develop and maintain relationships with vendors, contractors, and other stakeholders.
Ability to assess and troubleshoot technical issues and equipment needs.
Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and creative problem solving skills.

The role of a Dance Company Production Manager is multifaceted, and requires a wide range of skills to succeed. The most important skill for a Dance Company Production Manager is the ability to effectively communicate with all stakeholders, including dancers, staff, sponsors, and the public. Communication is key in ensuring that productions are on time and within budget, as well as ensuring that everyone involved understands their roles and responsibilities.

the ability to think creatively and problem-solve quickly is essential for a Dance Company Production Manager. This includes being able to develop strategies to maximize production value, while minimizing costs and risks. Good organizational skills are also key, as the Production Manager needs to be able to keep track of multiple tasks at once.

Finally, an understanding of human resources and the ability to manage people effectively is essential in order to ensure that the production runs smoothly. All of these skills are essential for a Dance Company Production Manager to be successful in their role.

Dance Costume Maker, Dance Music Arranger, and Dance Company Touring Artist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in managing dance company productions?
How would you ensure that each performance is a success?
What strategies do you use to manage day-to-day operations for a dance production?
How do you handle the financial aspects of producing a show?
What methods do you use to market and promote dance productions?
How do you work with choreographers, dancers, and other creative staff involved in a production?
How do you handle challenges that arise during the production process?
What strategies do you use to ensure that budgets are adhered to?
How do you handle creative differences with staff members?
What systems do you have in place to ensure the safety of performers?

Common Tools in Industry

Production Scheduling Software. Software used to create production schedules and assign tasks to staff, allowing for efficient organization and resource allocation. (eg: Microsoft Project)
Budgeting Software. Software used to manage production budgets and help identify potential cost savings. (eg: Quicken Budgeting Software)
Collaboration Tools. Platforms used to facilitate communication and collaboration among team members, providing a centralized hub for project updates, resources, and shared documents. (eg: Slack)
Contract Management Software. Software used to manage contracts and ensure compliance with organizational policies and legal regulations. (eg: Contract Guardian)
Event Management Software. Software used to plan, organize, and manage events from start to finish. (eg: Aventri Event Management Platform)
Logistics and Supply Chain Management Software. Software used to manage the movement of materials and resources from one location to another. (eg: Oracle Logistics Cloud)
Resource Scheduling Software. Software used to plan, allocate, and track personnel resources. (eg: When I Work Scheduling)
Time and Attendance Tracking Software. Software used to monitor employee attendance and hours worked. (eg: Homebase Time Clock)

Professional Organizations to Know

Dance/USA
International Association of Blacks in Dance
National Dance Education Organization
Dance/USA Education Fund
Society of Dance History Scholars
International Association for Dance Medicine & Science
American Dance Therapy Association
Dance/NYC
Dance/Music Alliance
National Dance Education Organization-Higher Education Network

We also have Dance Company Touring Merchandiser, Dance Studio Manager, and Dance Company Touring Production Assistant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Rehearsal Schedule. A schedule of when and where the company will be rehearsing for upcoming performances.
Production Budget. A document detailing the estimated costs associated with producing a performance.
Cast Breakdown. A list of actors and dancers who will be performing in the production.
Costume Design. The process of creating and designing costumes for the performers.
Set Design. The process of designing, constructing, and painting sets for the production.
Lighting Design. The process of selecting, installing, and programming lighting fixtures for a performance.
Choreography. The creative process of organizing and arranging movement for a dance performance.
Music Selection. The process of selecting and arranging music for a performance.
Technical Direction. The process of managing the technical elements of a production, such as sound, lighting, and video.
Audience Relations. The process of cultivating relationships with audience members to ensure their satisfaction and loyalty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many staff members does a Dance Company Production Manager typically manage?

A Dance Company Production Manager typically manages a staff of up to 10 people.

What tasks does a Dance Company Production Manager typically oversee?

A Dance Company Production Manager typically oversees managing budgets, booking performances, coordinating rehearsals and performances, and hiring and training staff.

What qualifications do Dance Company Production Managers need?

Dance Company Production Managers typically need a bachelor's degree in theater, dance, or a related field, as well as experience managing theatrical productions.

What is the average salary for a Dance Company Production Manager?

The average salary for a Dance Company Production Manager is around $50,000 per year.

What skills are most important for a Dance Company Production Manager?

The most important skills for a Dance Company Production Manager include strong organizational and communication skills, budgeting experience, knowledge of theater and dance production, and the ability to handle multiple tasks.