Careers.Broadway is intended to be a resource through which students and interested people of all ages find information and opportunities relating to careers in the Broadway industry. We have tried to include as much information as we could find, and we will update the site whenever more information comes to our attention. While many people are aware of the jobs that are visible when attending theatre (actors, musicians, ushers, etc.), there are many behind-the-scenes jobs that make shows happen as well. We hope you enjoy learning more about these exciting careers!

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Technical Supervisor/Technical Director/Technical Producer

What does a Technical Supervisor/Director/Producer do?

The TECHNICAL SUPERVISOR/DIRECTOR/PRODUCER, also known as the TD or TP, is the most senior technical position you can have in the theatre. They are in charge of overseeing the technicians and all technical aspects of a production, having extreme knowledge of the equipment and how to install, rig, troubleshoot, and program lighting, sound, and scenic devices used to set the stage. They work closely with the production designers and director in order to execute the production needs and vision.

Skills

Pathways

Stagehand | Degree in production and/or design | Assistant to the Technical Supervisor | Designer

How to become a Technical Supervisor/Director/Producer

Many colleges and universities offer degrees and concentrations in production and design/technical theatre, as well as connections to alumni working on professional productions. Broadway TDs often begin in a specific discipline (i.e. lighting, sound, scenic, etc.), transitioning to understanding and mastering the broad scope of technical design in theatre. Those interested in multiple facets of the production side may want to explore and learn about the various departments that make a Broadway show happen technically.

Union/Professional Organization Affiliations

Theatrical Stage Employees Local One – IATSE (New York City STAGEHANDS)

Resources

Educational Theatre Association’s “The Technical Director”

Spotlight on Broadway’s “Gene O’Donovan Technical Director”

American Theatre Wing’s “Technical Director”