Theatre Production Roles and Responsibilities

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key creative, performing, technical, and management roles in a theatre production.

Director

The person responsible for the overall creative vision of the show, who brings production elements together to create a cohesive final production and directs performers during rehearsals.

Performer

An actor, singer, or dancer whose job is to perform within a production and maintain a high-quality performance each night during the run of the show.

Design Team

A group brought together by the director to help deliver the director's artistic vision, often working in advance of rehearsals and continuing until the show opens.

Set Designer

The person responsible for designing the set to create the world of the show, working from a concept to technical drawings before construction by specialist departments.

Costume Designer

The person responsible for designing the costume, hair, and make-up for a production, working closely with the costume department who make the outfits and wigs.

Lighting Designer

The person responsible for designing the lighting within a production to create lighting states for atmosphere and mood on stage.

Sound Designer

The person responsible for designing the use of sound, such as sound effects or music, to enhance a production and advising on technical equipment like microphones.

Playwright

The person responsible for writing a play, who may be commissioned by theatre companies or producers, or submit scripts speculatively.

Understudy

A performer who learns the lines and blocking of a regular performer in order to cover their part if the regular performer is unable to perform.

Swing

A performer who covers an understudy's regular part within a production when the understudy goes on stage to perform a lead role.

Stage Manager

The person responsible for backstage during a production, who leads the stage management team, organizes schedules, sets props, and calls the show.