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

Nov 12, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The role of a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager is essential in ensuring a successful performance. This involves ensuring that all technical aspects of the show run smoothly, as well as liaising with the production team, crew and cast. They are also responsible for managing all equipment, props and scenery necessary for the show, and for dealing with any operational issues that may arise.

As a result of their hard work, the audience is able to enjoy a seamless and captivating performance. Furthermore, the success of the tour and the reputation of the company can be attributed to their efficient and diligent management.

Steps How to Become

Get a degree in a related field. You may choose to pursue a degree in stage management, theatre production or another related field. This will give you the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a career as a dance company touring stage manager.
Obtain experience in the field. Consider applying for internships or volunteer positions at local dance companies. This will give you the chance to learn more about the work of a stage manager and gain valuable experience.
Develop strong organizational skills. As a stage manager, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the production, from scheduling rehearsals to coordinating tour logistics. Having strong organizational skills will help you succeed in this role.
Develop strong communication skills. As a stage manager, you will need to be able to communicate effectively with dancers, technicians, and other members of the production team.
Network with other stage managers. You may find job openings by networking with other stage managers or by attending industry events.
Apply for positions as a dance company touring stage manager. When applying for jobs, make sure to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications.
Once you have secured a position as a dance company touring stage manager, you should attend trainings and workshops to improve your skills and stay up-to-date on industry trends. You should also make sure to stay organized and maintain positive relationships with everyone on the production team.

The role of a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager is to ensure that the production is reliable and efficient. This requires organization, planning, and problem-solving skills in order to anticipate any potential issues or delays. The Stage Manager must have a good understanding of the technical elements involved in a production, as well as the ability to work with various departments, including production staff, marketers, and performers.

They are responsible for ensuring that each performance runs smoothly and safely, which can include tasks such as organizing technical rehearsals, setting up equipment, and executing the show cue sheet. The Stage Manager also acts as a mediator between the production staff and performers to ensure that everyone is in agreement on how the production will unfold. By taking proactive steps to ensure reliability and efficiency, the Dance Company Touring Stage Manager ensures that the audience is able to enjoy the show without disruption.

You may want to check Dance Studio Manager, Dance Performance Technician, and Dance Company Touring Artist for alternative.

Job Description

Plan and coordinate day-to-day operations of the dance company tour.
Supervise and direct the tour crew, including technical staff and personnel.
Ensure tour venues are properly prepared for performances and rehearsals.
Oversee the setup and breakdown of stage equipment, audio-visual equipment, lighting, and other technical equipment as needed.
Manage budgets and other financial matters related to the tour.
Work with marketing team to promote and publicize the tour.
Negotiate contracts and other agreements with venues, artists, sponsors, and vendors.
Ensure compliance with local laws and regulations in each tour city or country.
Liaise with local health and safety officials to ensure all safety protocols are followed during the tour.
Manage travel arrangements for cast and crew, as well as shipping of equipment and supplies.
Handle any emergencies or unforeseen issues that arise during the tour.
Stay up-to-date on current technologies and trends to improve tour operations.
Develop and implement strategies to maximize tour profitability.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of stage management techniques and principles
Ability to create and implement production schedules
Experience with organizing and managing touring crews
Understanding of relevant labor laws, union regulations, and safety requirements
Ability to work effectively in a fast paced, high pressure environment
Skill in delegating tasks to crew members
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
Proficient in the use of audio/visual equipment
Knowledge of budgets and cost control
Proficiency in the use of backstage software programs
Strong computer skills (MS Office, ProTools, etc. )
Ability to effectively communicate with performers, crew, and venue staff
Ability to maintain a professional demeanour throughout the tour
Knowledge of rigging and set-up procedures for a variety of venues

Being a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager requires a wide range of skills, with organization and multitasking being of the utmost importance. Having the ability to stay organized and manage a variety of tasks simultaneously is crucial to the success of any tour. A Touring Stage Manager must be able to plan ahead to ensure that all crew members and performers understand their roles, as well as keep track of the logistics of the tour.

they must be able to solve problems quickly and efficiently in order to make sure that the show runs smoothly. Having an understanding of sound, lighting, and rigging systems is also important, since these are key elements that need to be managed. Furthermore, strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential in order to build positive relationships with team members and maintain a positive atmosphere.

being a successful Dance Company Touring Stage Manager requires a wide range of skills, from organization and multitasking to problem-solving and communication.

Dance Crew Manager, Dance Company Administrator, and Dance Company Tour Booking Coordinator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in managing the tour of a dance company?
How do you plan for and manage the technical aspects of a dance tour?
Describe a situation in which you had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances while touring with a dance company.
What strategies do you use to manage a tour budget?
How would you handle a situation that calls for coordinating multiple daily activities for a dance tour?
What methods do you use to ensure that all necessary equipment arrives safely and on time for each performance?
How do you communicate effectively with dancers and other staff members while on tour?
What challenges have you faced while managing a dance tour, and how did you overcome them?
Describe your experience working with different types of venues while managing a dance tour.
What processes do you use to ensure that all safety regulations are met while on tour?

Common Tools in Industry

Touring Logistics Software . A software package used to manage tour logistics, such as flight bookings, accommodation, and local transportation. (eg: Tour Manager Pro)
Show Control System . A system used to control lighting, sound, video, and other elements of a show. (eg: GrandMA2)
Digital Stage Plot . A software used to create digital stage plots for shows and rehearsals. (eg: Stage Plot Pro)
Tour Budgeting Software . A software used to manage tour-related expenses, such as artist fees, venue costs, and production costs. (eg: Tour Budgeter)
Cue Management System . A software used to manage cues for shows and rehearsals. (eg: QLab)
Production Management Software . A software used to manage the production process, from pre-production to post-show wrap-up. (eg: Showman)
Crew Scheduling Software . A software used to create and manage crew schedules for tours and shows. (eg: Crew Chief)
Performance Tracking Software . A software used to track the performance of dancers and other performers. (eg: DanceTrac)

Professional Organizations to Know

Association of Theatrical Press Agents and Managers (ATPAM)
United Scenic Artists (USA)
International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
League of American Theatres and Producers (LATP)
Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers (SSDC)
Society of Professional Entertainment Industry Executives (SPEIE)
International Association of Professional Tour Managers (IAPTM)
International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM)
Association of Performing Arts Presenters (APAP)
International Association of Auditorium Managers (IAAM)

We also have Dance Team Coach, Dance Company Public Relations Manager, and Dance Lighting Designer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Venue Liaison. Person responsible for communicating with and coordinating the venue where the dance company is touring.
Tour Manager. Person responsible for overseeing the tour and making sure all areas are covered, including travel, lodging, rehearsal, and performance logistics.
Road Crew. The individuals who work backstage during performances, responsible for setting up and breaking down stage scenery and equipment.
Company Manager. Person who manages the dance companys finances, personnel, and contracts.
Rehearsal Coordinator. Person responsible for scheduling and organizing the companys rehearsals and classes during the tour.
Wardrobe Manager. Person responsible for managing the wardrobe and costume needs of the dancers during a tour.
Sound Technician. Individual responsible for setting up and operating sound systems for performances.
Lighting Designer. Person responsible for creating and executing the lighting designs for performances.
Tour Booking Agent. Person who books the tour dates and venues for the company.
Tour Publicist. Person responsible for promoting and marketing the tour of the dance company.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to be a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager?

A Dance Company Touring Stage Manager typically needs to have a bachelors degree in theatre, stage management, or a related field, and experience in stage management. They should also have strong organizational skills, excellent communication and problem-solving abilities, and familiarity with relevant software and equipment.

What are the responsibilities of a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager?

The primary responsibilities of a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager include overseeing stage setup, organizing and running rehearsals, coordinating performers, and troubleshooting any technical issues that may arise. Additionally, they are responsible for creating schedules, budgets, and paperwork related to the tour.

How many people does a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager typically coordinate?

A Dance Company Touring Stage Manager typically coordinates with several performers, technical staff, and other personnel. Depending on the size of the tour and the dance company, this can range from 10 to 100 people.

How long does a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager's work last?

The duration of the work of a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager depends on the length of the tour. Tours can last anywhere from one week to several months, so the amount of time needed to complete the role can vary significantly.

What is the salary range for a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager?

The salary range for a Dance Company Touring Stage Manager can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors. According to PayScale, the average salary is $43,000 per year, with salaries ranging from $32,000 to $60,000 per year.