Production Stage Manager

GENERAL INFORMATION

Position Title: Production Stage Manager

Job Status: Full-time exempt

Reports To: General Manager/Producer

Supervises: Stage Manager, Lighting Manager, Audio Director, Backstage Managers,

Wardrobe Director, Props Manager, and subs for these positions.

Works in coordination with: Show Directors and the Director of Food and Beverage

Start Date: August 2024

Job Location: Chicago, IL, on-site

Compensation: Annual salary $70k DOE,

Health, Dental and Vision Insurance available on the 1st day of the month following

60 days of employment.

ABOUT TEATRO ZINZANNI

Teatro ZinZanni presents a fully integrated evening of entertainment which includes

cirque artists, European cabaret, contortionists, jugglers and illusionists with live

music and a fabulous multi-course meal, set in an antique jewel box tent imported

from Belgium.

The smooth operation of Teatro ZinZanni is based on teamwork and the shared

responsibility of the production and hospitality staff. Our success is determined

by the excellent integration of the quality of the show and the food and beverage

operations.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Production Stage Manager (PSM) is an operational position that works in close

cooperation with the GM/Producer and the Director of Food and Beverage Operations

and the Creative Team.

The PSM manages all production staff, budget, and schedule. They work in

coordination with Stage Management on all show-related needs including keeping the

show standards in place. They manage all equipment needs with department heads

as needed. They also manage the rehearsal period for shows planning all technical,

staffing needs including coordination with performer needs.

The PSM is responsible for all show communications which include regular meetings

with directors, cast, band, production staff, department heads, and restaurant staff to

share information, administrative protocols, and performance protocols with the team.

The PSM works with the Stage Manager and restaurant management to provide

comprehensive show reports at the end of each show.

This position supports the Director in show development planning and works with the

Stage Manager to schedule and plan all rehearsals, and take notes on blocking,

props, costumes, and staging at rehearsals and distribute notes daily. Operationally,

the PSM is responsible for show management and finding solutions to any

daily/weekly ongoing production and artistic issues. The PSM is also the liaison

between production and restaurant operations for communicating show needs to

ensure seamless integration of the guest experience. They work with the Stage

Manager and restaurant operations to deliver a comprehensive show report for each

show. Facility oversight for the show operations areas is an integral part of this

position. Show and artist changes may occur every few months and require advance

coordination of technical needs for new acts.

As needed, the PSM coordinates PR events to ensure operational success.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

● Work with Artistic Directors and VP of Production as an active participant in

achieving artistic goals, ensuring consistent quality, guaranteeing a high level of

performance maintenance and preserving highest production values.

● Advance the show schedules with Director and production team including

general rehearsal schedule, band schedule, labor schedule and any others as

needed.

● Advance and manage the show's technical needs with artists, band, and staff.

● Coordinate daily/weekly schedules with Cast and Band.

● Ensure that all blocking notes are taken and understood by technical staff.

● Set the standard for stage management performance reports and ensure they

are followed.

● Oversee rehearsals with the Stage Manager and documents all rehearsals with

follow-up notes.

● Direct all staff in life safety protocols and manages all safety training for the

facility.

● Write or review nightly show notes for performance, restaurant, and production

needs and create additional reports as needed.

● Oversee Stage Manager to ensure that all information is up to date and

communicated in a timely way.

● Assist Artistic Director as eye on show when directors are not onsite.

● Ensure that all prop, costume, and technical needs are communicated in writing

and to the appropriate people.

● Ensure that stage management communicates with restaurant management re:

changes, timing, etc.

● Maintain the show's records including sound, lights, and stage manager

documentation and procedures on the company g-drive.

● Help to develop talented and dedicated technical, wardrobe, and backstage

management personnel.

● Provide timely feedback to production staff that cultivates a strong team

environment.

● Coordinate with outside vendors to effectively price and acquire rental

equipment as needed.

● Track Logistical and scheduling details and communicate regularly with the

production team.

● Coordinate with marketing on timing and appropriate working protocol for on

and offsite events.

● Coordinate with departments on front-of-house/ back- of-house needs.

● Lead weekly production meetings.

● Manage the production budget which includes approval of all production

payroll.Work cooperatively with administrative staff.

● Maintain compliance with all active union contracts. Professionally represent

Teatro ZinZanni at all times.

● Complete all other duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

● Minimum 5 years production stage management experience in musical theater,

opera, cirque, or dinner theater.

● Experience managing a multi-level production staff.

● Knowledge of industry standards relative to performing arts and technical

theater including stage, sound, lighting, and rigging.

● Comprehensive working experience in professional performing arts and

technical theater.

● Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including the ability to

plan and write detailed schedules.

● Budget management experience.

● Ability to deal appropriately and professionally with artists, union members,

producers, local and remote staff, vendors, and patrons. Ability to anticipate

problems or to identify them before significant impact on the show and

expenses.

● Excellent organizational skills.

● Can direct all levels of production paperwork

● Strong leadership and communication skills.

● Ability to create a positive and collaborative production environment.

● Excellent eye for detail.

● Ability to take complete stage notes.

● Staff management skills

● Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google applications.

● Ability to successfully multitask in a high volume fast-paced environment.

● Ability to call the show.

● Ability to mentor the production team.

● Experience with cirque productions is a plus.

● Experience with show setups.

● Experience with facility management is a plus.

WORKING SCHEDULE/ENVIRONMENT

Fast-paced, complex theatrical environment incorporating a 285-seat fine dining

restaurant. Primary schedule is variable Wednesday through Sunday, 2PM-10PM. .

Flexibility between daytime or evening schedules varies based on work needs.

Schedule is subject to change and will vary according to the show calendar.

● Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs.

● Ability to sit at, and work at a computer for extended periods-of-time

● Ability to access all sound, lighting, and stage areas and equipment.

● Ability to work long and irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays

To Apply: Please send a cover letter and resume in PDF format

to chicago-production-jobs@zinzanni.com