Level 3 Entertainment Technology AQA

Theatre organization and job roles

Theatre Organization

• Theatre organization is the structural arrangement of departments, roles, and responsibilities in a theatre production.
• It involves coordinating the activities of various departments such as costume design, set design, sound, lighting, and stage management.
• Theatre organizations can vary in size and structure, ranging from small community theatre companies to large professional productions.

Artistic Director

• The artistic director has the overall responsibility for the choice of plays/musicals that will be produced.
• They work closely with directors, actors, and other theatre professionals to realize the artistic vision of the production.
• This role may involve fundraising, promoting the theatre, and building relationships with sponsors.

Director

• Directors are charged with the task of bringing a play to life for the audience.
• They break down the script, collaborating with actors to help them understand their characters and motivations.
• The director also works with the lighting, costume, sound, and set departments to create the desired atmosphere and visual elements of the play.

Production Manager

• The production manager oversees the technical aspects of a theatre production.
• This role requires coordinating the technical departments - set, lighting, sound, and costume – ensuring they're within budget and meeting deadlines.
• The production manager facilitates communication between all departments and is a key player in problem-solving throughout the production process.

Stage Manager

• Stage Managers are pivotal in coordinating all aspects of a theatre production.
• They manage rehearsals, keep track of props and costumes, ensure scene changes run smoothly, and deal with unexpected issues during live performances.
• The stage manager communicates with all departments, making sure everyone is on the same page.

Set Designer

• A set designer is tasked with creating the physical surroundings in which the action will take place.
• They collaborate closely with the director to create a visual environment that supports the storyline and characterisation.
• Set designers produce detailed blueprints, models, or drawings of the set, facilitating the construction crew's work.

Costume Designer

• Costume designers create the outfits worn by actors, aligning with the characters' personalities, the era of the play, and the director’s vision.
• They may also have to consider practical elements like the actors' comfort and quick costume changes.
• Costume designers can be responsible for either sourcing or manufacturing the costumes.

Lighting Designer

• Lighting designers create the lighting effects for a production, shaping the mood, setting, time of day, and focusing attention.
• They collaborate with the director and other designers to ensure the lighting complements the overall production.
• Lighting designers use a lighting plan to communicate their ideas to the technical crew.

Sound Designer

• Sound designers take charge of all the auditory aspects of a play, including sound effects and music.
• They work closely with the director to support the mood and atmosphere desired for different scenes.
• Sound designers prepare a cue sheet which outlines what sound is required, when, and its source.