In this month’s installation of “Behind The Curtain” we look at another important person in a band’s touring entourage: the Production Manager.
Unlike the Tour Manager, who handles the broad strokes of moving a band and crew from town to town, the Production Manager’s world revolves around the 2,500 square feet that make up a stage area and the “wings” to either side. Production Managers also oversee the various dressing rooms and offices that comprise the backstage area of most music venues.
Production Managers are the quarterbacks of the technical teams who bring life to the sophisticated sound, light, and (sometimes) video systems that are required for large-scale music events. They coordinate teams of technicians representing both the band and the venue, plus any additional labor teams who are brought in (typically for concerts in a non-traditional venues like a convention center or outdoor location like a park or riverfront). Production Managers also coordinate with other bands who may be sharing the stage with the headline act.
As the person ultimately responsible for what audiences see and hear, Production Managers tend to be very particular and a bit on the no-nonsense side. Of course, the smoother things are going as show time draws near, the more relaxed they become.
Production Managers work hard to create consistency in the look, sound, and feel of each night’s concert – no small task, considering the wide variety of places they travel and people they work with. Each venue, promoter, and tech team is similar, but different, as are the stage, sound and light systems at each venue.
By understanding the pros and cons of each venue, each technical configuration, and each band being considered for a corporate function, we’re able to provide a unique perspective and solid advice for our clients.
To learn how you can take steps towards creating a memorable music experience for your customers or clients, contact the Cord Management today office at 615-866-5003.