Stage Manager

Job Title: Stage Manager

Department: Operations

Reports to: Director of Concert Operations

Status: Regular, full-time, exempt from overtime

Please include a cover letter and resume when applying.

Summary:

The Stage Manager provides essential support to the Director of Concert Operations and the Operations team, performing assigned concert operations activities and proactively maintaining a safe and friendly backstage environment. The Stage Manager is responsible for executing tasks surrounding Houston Symphony live performances and livestreams at the highest level. The Stage Manager holds positive relationships with Houston Symphony stakeholders while contributing to a culture of collaboration and support within the artistic operations department and the entire organization.

Objective: Produce high-level Houston Symphony live performances in and outside of Houston

• In consultation with Operations team and/or designated symphony crew heads, plan work flow for all calls, including hiring stagehands and other stage crew as assigned, utilizing Union recommended software, if applicable.
• Actively participate in the set-up of all instruments, stands, chairs, and the podium, as well as lighting, sound, climate control, risers, and platforms where required, and any other special performance requirements for all concerts and rehearsals. Supervise and direct stagehands in the same.
• Ensure backstage facilities are in order. This includes providing proper lighting, tables and chairs when needed, instrument cases, and other items as requested or needed.
• Make all required stage moves during a performance or rehearsal and/or direct stagehands to make all required moves.
• Manage the flow of each performance including directing personnel at the start of concerts and after intermission.
• In partnership with Foundation for Jones Hall, maintain the backstage and all storage facilities in safe and secure manner, including maintaining safe pathways throughout the areas.
• Serve as Houston Symphony representative at venues other than Jones Hall, as assigned.
• When on tour, serve as supervisor of the Houston Symphony's production/stage road crew, and as liaison and spokesperson to the production/stage personnel of the tour venue. Supervise preparation of all tour instruments and equipment. Assist the Director of Concert Operations in the preparation of all cargo and shipping documents in an accurate and timely manner.
• On overseas tours, supervise transport of all equipment and wardrobe trunks, work with cargo brokers, meet with customs agents to assist with cargo clearance, supervise load-ins and load-outs of equipment.

Objective: Contribute to a culture of collaboration, support, and best practices within the artistic operations department and the entire organization

• Troubleshoot daily musician needs in a calm, effective manner.
• Proactively initiate conversations with Operations team and/or venue representatives about any production issues as they arise and advise on areas of potential improvement.
• Participate in department and production meetings as assigned. Assist in the planning of and advise on requirements for Houston Symphony performances and all other appearances by the orchestra.
• Maintain the inventory of all stage, touring, and production equipment and regularly consult with Director of Concert Operations on maintenance and advise on needs for additional purchase of said equipment.
• Prepare and submit to Director of Concert Operations bi-weekly payroll for stagehands.
• Ensure a safe working environment for musicians, guest artists, staff, and stagehands.
• Attend concerts, performances, and other orchestra services as required.
• Continue to learn and have curiosity.
• Maintain a friendly and positive environment in all interactions with all musicians, crew, staff, artists, and guest production personnel.
• Adhere to the provisions of the master agreement between the Houston Symphony Society and stagehands' union, including working closely with any union-appointed steward.
• Perform additional duties as required by the Houston Symphony Society

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a similar position in a performing arts organization or venue.
• Supervisory experience preferred.
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work in, build, and foster a team atmosphere.
• Flexibility in a changing, fast-paced environment - ability to prioritize tasks is a must!
• Experience working in Microsoft Word and Excel, as well as email skills, is required.
• Knowledge of orchestra or other musical entertainment operations preferred.
• Ability and willingness to perform all duties required of stagehands and stage crew.
• Exceptional organizational and management skills.
• Physical abilities required:
  • Bend legs downward and forward by bending legs and spine. (Ability to stoop and crawl)
  • Ascend or descend stairs, ramps, ladders, etc. using feet and / or legs and / or hands and arms.
  • Move about on foot to accomplish tasks, particularly for long distances.
  • Use upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, drag, haul, or tug objects in sustained motion.
  • Lift, push, pull heavy objects (Ability to lift 50 pounds and move 100 pounds).
  • Work at heights up to 100 feet (no inordinate fear of heights).

The Houston Symphony is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, national origin, disability or handicap, veteran status, or any other protected class.