The Essential Stagehand Handbook
If you’re interested in the music industry, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of stagehands. Stagehands are the backbone of live events, working behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly. But what exactly does a stagehand do, and how can you become one? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of stagehands, exploring their roles, responsibilities, and the skills you need to succeed in this exciting career.
What is a Stagehand?
A stagehand is a skilled technician who works backstage to set up, maintain, and dismantle the equipment used in live events. This can include concerts, theater productions, corporate events, and more. Stagehands are responsible for everything from setting up lighting and sound systems to constructing sets and moving heavy equipment. They work closely with performers, producers, and other crew members to ensure that everything runs smoothly and safely.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Stagehand
The specific roles and responsibilities of a stagehand can vary depending on the type of event they’re working on. However, some common tasks include:
- Setting up and testing lighting, sound, and other equipment
- Constructing and dismantling sets
- Moving equipment and props on and off stage
- Operating stage machinery such as curtains and lifts
- Ensuring the safety of performers and crew members
- Troubleshooting technical issues that arise during the event
- Following strict timelines and schedules
Skills Needed to Be a Stagehand
To be a successful stagehand, you need a combination of technical and interpersonal skills. Some of the most important skills include:
- Technical proficiency: Stagehands need to have a deep understanding of the equipment they work with, including lighting and sound systems, rigging, and stage machinery.
- Physical strength and stamina: The job of a stagehand can be physically demanding, requiring you to lift heavy equipment and work long hours.
- Attention to detail: Stagehands need to be meticulous in their work, ensuring that everything is set up correctly and runs smoothly throughout the event.
- Communication skills: Stagehands work as part of a team, so it’s important to be able to communicate effectively with other crew members and performers.
- Problem-solving skills: When technical issues arise, stagehands need to be able to think on their feet and troubleshoot the problem quickly and efficiently.
How to Become a Stagehand
There are several paths you can take to become a stagehand. Some people start out as volunteers or interns, working on local productions to gain experience and build their skills. Others attend vocational schools or community colleges that offer programs in theater production or technical theater. Still, others get their start by working in related fields, such as audio engineering or set design, before transitioning into stagehand work.
No matter how you get started, it’s important to build your skills and gain experience in the industry. Attend as many events as you can, network with other professionals, and always be willing to learn and take on new challenges.
Career and Education Opportunities
Working as a stagehand can be a rewarding and fulfilling career, offering the chance to work behind the scenes on some of the biggest and most exciting events in the world. There are also many opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a crew chief or production manager.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a stagehand, there are many educational opportunities available to you. New York University (NYU) offers a range of programs in the arts and entertainment industry, including the NYU Tisch School of the Arts and the Parsons School of Design. Additionally, NYU offers an online course and certificate program called “NYU x Billboard | Music Industry Essentials,” which provides an in-depth look at the music industry and the skills needed to succeed in it. This program is offered through Yellowbrick, a leader in online education for creative industries.
Key Takeaways
- Stagehands are skilled technicians who work behind the scenes to set up, maintain, and dismantle equipment used in live events.
- To be a successful stagehand, you need technical proficiency, physical strength, attention to detail, communication skills, and problem-solving skills.
- There are many paths to becoming a stagehand, including volunteering, attending vocational schools, and working in related fields.
- New York University offers many educational opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in the arts and entertainment industry, including the “NYU x Billboard | Music Industry Essentials” online course and certificate program offered through Yellowbrick.
