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Producer

Get insights from Producer James Bierman

“The role of a producer is quite an interesting one, in that it covers such a broad spectrum of responsibilities that you can fundamentally define your own personal version of being a producer through your own skill set. I certainly know of producers out there who are very business‑led. And then there are other producers I know of who are all about the creative putting together of the project and finding a wonderful actor or a playwright, and blending all of those artistic elements together.”

JAMES BIERMAN

Role

The Producer of a theatre or production company works closely with the Artistic Director to realise the creative vision for the theatre/company and its artistic programme of work. Together they will propose and discuss various ideas, following which the Producer will create a budget, secure funding, liaise with agents and managers to engage actors and other members of a Creative Team and then manage all legal and contractual details.

Once a production is in rehearsal, the Producer – collaborating with a Production Manager – ensures that all departments are working within budget and to schedule to meet the deadline of opening night. A building-based Producer works with a General Manager in the running and staffing of the venue. 

Responsibilities

  • Realising the creative vision of a theatre/company and ensuring the delivery of its artistic programme
  • Securing funding by putting together a syndicate of investors or ‘backers’
  • Setting and managing budgets and cash-flow, ensuring all payments are paid and received
  • Contracting venues and personnel, from leading actors to members of the Creative Team
  • Overseeing the work of all departments, liaising with Press and Marketing, etc.
  • Managing legal affairs, including insurance for all activities

Key Skills

  • A creative vision and the ability to realise that in practical terms
  • Drive, determination and strong leadership, including good judgement
  • Excellent time-management skills, with the ability to problem solve and work under pressure
  • Good communication skills, interacting with a range of personalities
  • Excellent with figures and spreadsheets

Training

Many producers acquire experience in other areas of theatre first – Front of House, Stage Management, etc. – working their way up within venues, from General Manager to Producer. This helps them gain a thorough working knowledge of the various roles and departments within the theatre.

There are now more producing courses available, which – as with directing courses – tend to be at post‑graduate level where students have already studied a first degree. Working as an intern within a larger production company and learning from established producers is an ideal way to gain experience and begin to develop a network of contacts.

Courses

Other courses are available. Those above represent a sample from various drama schools and universities.

Further Reading

  • Producing Theatre – A Comprehensive and Legal Business Guide by Donald C. Farber, 1981
  • Producing Musicals – A Practical Guide by John Gardyne, 2004
  • So You Want To Be A Producer? by James Seabright, 2010