Producers

Producing is a fantastic way to get involved with productions from start to finish, with absolutely no experience required. Producers are vital to a show’s success, leading the team and overseeing the production.

Within DST, often producers fulfil two key roles within a production: management and marketing. The former involves budgeting for the show, sourcing props and costumes, organising meetings for the production team and ensuring all the different aspects of the production come together in time for opening night. Producers also sort the publicity for the show, creating social media content and posters to hang around Durham – with so many productions each term, it’s important to make sure yours stands out!

What is a Producer?

A common mistake is mixing up the roles of directors and producers. Whilst directors are responsible for shaping the show through rehearsals and working with the cast, the producer is responsible for making the show happen, including publicity, sourcing props and costumes, liaising with the venue, and general logistics. The producer will often oversee a larger production team full of individuals dedicated to different aspects of the production.

How Do I Get Involved?

To become a producer, you could start as an assistant producer or just throw yourself in to it from the beginning. These rolls are open for application at the start of each production process so keep an eye on these being advertised! Shows are always looking for producers and the key skills needed are organisation, creativity and enthusiasm! New to producing at Durham? Check out the DST Members’ Section for detailed guides to producing, publicity, finance and more!

 

Backstage

If you would prefer to get involved in something specific, then we have plenty of opportunities for you!

On many shows, especially large-scale shows, producers will often work with an extensive creative team. Opportunities for more specialised creative work will often be advertised on a theatre company’s social media pages, as well as on the weekly email. Some areas you could get involved in backstage are:

  • Set design
  • Costume design & make-up
  • Graphic design (e.g. posters and other publicity material)
  • Photography, Videography and Editing

If you are interested in backstage opportunities in technical theatre including stage management, lighting design, sound design and more, check out our page on technicians!