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

The role of a Dance Production Manager is to coordinate, plan, and oversee all aspects of a dance production. This includes organizing the production budget, scheduling rehearsals, and hiring and supervising personnel. As a result, the Dance Production Manager must have strong organizational, communication, and management skills.

the Dance Production Manager must be able to work with a variety of individuals, including dancers, choreographers, technical staff, and other production crew members. When these skills are combined, the Dance Production Manager is able to ensure that all aspects of the production run smoothly and efficiently, resulting in a successful performance.

Steps How to Become

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree. A bachelor's degree in dance, music, theater, or a related field is required for many Dance Production Manager positions. Courses in event planning, production, and business may also be beneficial.
2. Gain Experience. Prior experience in dance production or performing arts management is highly beneficial. Many employers prefer to hire Dance Production Managers who have at least three years of experience in the industry.
3. Develop Leadership Skills. As a Dance Production Manager, you will be responsible for leading a team of dancers, designers, and technicians. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for success in this role.
4. Consider Certification. Although not required, certification may help you stand out from other job candidates. Certification is available through organizations like the International Dance Music Association.
5. Take on Additional Responsibilities. Taking on additional responsibilities such as choreographing dance numbers or teaching classes may help you gain experience and demonstrate your commitment to the industry.

The job of a Dance Production Manager requires comprehensive knowledge of the production process, meticulous planning and organizational skills, and the ability to effectively manage personnel. Ensuring smooth operations on the production set is a key responsibility of a Dance Production Manager. They must provide direction and coordinate resources such as personnel, equipment and props to ensure that the production runs according to schedule and within budget.

They must also have the ability to anticipate and resolve any issues that may arise during the production process. Furthermore, they must be able to interact and communicate effectively with the production staff and cast. this combination of skills and experience helps to create an ideal and qualified Dance Production Manager.

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Job Description

1. Oversee and coordinate the production aspects of all dance events.
2. Manage and coordinate the budget for each dance production.
3. Develop and implement production strategies for all events.
4. Plan and coordinate production timelines for all dance performances.
5. Oversee the selection and setup of all technical equipment for each event.
6. Hire and manage production staff for each event and ensure proper training and supervision.
7. Monitor and maintain all production equipment to ensure it is in good working condition.
8. Oversee and coordinate the rehearsal process for each event.
9. Ensure that performers are aware of their roles and responsibilities and are prepared for each performance.
10. Work with marketing teams to develop promotional strategies for each event and ensure that all publicity materials are distributed on time.
11. Liaise with venue staff to ensure that all production requirements are met before, during and after the performance.
12. Manage all administrative tasks related to the production, including contracts and invoices, licensing, and insurance.
13. Remain abreast of new technologies and trends in dance production to ensure that events are up-to-date and innovative.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Excellent organizational skills
2. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
3. Budget management experience
4. Knowledge of production equipment and technology
5. Knowledge of staging, lighting, and sound design
6. Knowledge of theatrical production
7. Creative problem-solving skills
8. Ability to work well with talent and staff
9. Experience with scheduling and coordinating events
10. Strong communication and interpersonal skills
11. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
12. Attention to detail
13. Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite

As a Dance Production Manager, the most important skill to possess is organization. This skill is essential for efficiently planning and executing a successful dance production. Being organized allows the manager to prioritize tasks, create a timeline, and manage the budget and resources available.

Furthermore, it allows them to keep track of the details of the production, such as the number of performers, the type of music, and the costumes. organization helps the manager to ensure that everyone involved in the production is on the same page, from the dancers to the choreographer and costume designer. Without organization and attention to detail, a dance production can easily become chaotic and ineffective.

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Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have working as a Dance Production Manager?
• What challenges have you faced while working in the dance production industry?
• How would you manage a team of dancers to ensure all production elements are executed as planned?
• How do you ensure that dancers are properly warmed up and ready to perform?
• What techniques do you use to manage rehearsals and ensure the show runs on time?
• What methods do you use to motivate a team of dancers?
• How do you ensure that the performance space is suitable for a dance production?
• How have you handled unexpected changes during a production?
• How do you handle conflicts among dancers or other personnel on the production team?
• What steps do you take to promote safety and prevent injuries on set?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Scheduling software. This software is used to create and manage schedules for dance performances and rehearsals. Examples include Asana, Trello, and Google Calendar.
2. Budgeting software. This software is used to create and manage budgets for dance performances and rehearsals. Examples include QuickBooks, Xero, and Excel.
3. Communications software. This software is used to communicate with dancers, venues, and other team members involved in the production of a dance performance. Examples include Slack, Zoom, and Skype.
4. Audition software. This software is used to select dancers for a dance performance. Examples include Dance Audition Manager, Dancer Database, and Rehearsal Pro.
5. Video editing software. This software is used to create and edit videos for promotional purposes or for the performance itself. Examples include Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and iMovie.
6. Lighting design software. This software is used to create lighting designs for the performance. Examples include Lightwright and LightConverse.
7. Inventory management software. This software is used to track inventory of costumes and props used in the performance. Examples include Fishbowl Inventory and Asset Panda.

Professional Organizations to Know

1. Association of Dance Executives (ADE)
2. International Association of Event and Production Managers (IAEPM)
3. Professional Conference Management Association (PCMA)
4. Meeting Professionals International (MPI)
5. International Live Events Association (ILEA)
6. Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA)
7. Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA)
8. International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE)
9. League of American Orchestras (LAO)
10. National Association for Music Education (NAfME)
11. International Association for the Study of Popular Music (IASPM)
12. National Dance Education Organization (NDEO)
13. Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers (SSDC)

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Common Important Terms

1. Choreographer. A person responsible for the design, creation, and presentation of a dance production.
2. Dance Captain. A dancer in a production who is responsible for the execution of the choreography and the well-being of the other dancers.
3. Technical Director. The person responsible for the technical aspects of a production, such as lighting, sound, set design, and rigging.
4. Stage Manager. The person in charge of the rehearsal and performance process, including calling cues, managing props and costumes, and resolving issues that arise during the run.
5. Costume Designer. The person responsible for creating costumes for the production.
6. Music Director. The person in charge of selecting and organizing music for the production.
7. Lighting Designer. The person responsible for creating the lighting design for a production.
8. Publicist. The person responsible for promoting a production through press releases, interviews, and other marketing tactics.
9. Production Assistant. An individual who assists with administrative and organizational tasks in pre-production and during the run of a production.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Dance Production Manager do?

A Dance Production Manager oversees all areas of a dance production, including budgeting, scheduling, staffing, marketing, and logistics. They also ensure that the technical and artistic elements of the production are in place, and support the creative process.

What qualifications do you need to be a Dance Production Manager?

To be a Dance Production Manager, you usually need a degree in dance or theater production, or equivalent experience. You should also have strong organizational and communication skills, as well as an understanding of the creative process.

How many people does a Dance Production Manager typically manage?

The size of team that a Dance Production Manager typically manages can vary depending on the size and scope of the production. For larger productions, it can range from 10 to 50 people.

What is the average salary for a Dance Production Manager?

The average salary for a Dance Production Manager is around $60,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.

What type of environment does a Dance Production Manager work in?

Dance Production Managers typically work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines. They often collaborate with multiple teams and departments to ensure that productions are successful.

What are jobs related with Dance Production Manager?

• Dance Company Tour Booking Coordinator
• Dance Team Coach
• Dance Performance Artist
• Dance Company Tour Manager
• Dance Show Coordinator
• Dance Company Production Manager
• Dance Fitness Instructor
• Dance Company Administrator
• Dance Performance Technician
• Dance Company Touring Production Manager

Web Resources

• Job Posting: Performing Arts Production Manager dance.osu.edu
• About Dance Production - Jacqueline Burgess laney.edu
• Dance Production Guidelines | Virtual Dance - The University of … virtualdance.studio.uiowa.edu