Links to detailed descriptions:

Short descriptions:


Producer

The Producer makes sure that everything gets done, and that the Guild's resources (people, money, and materials) are used prudently to produce the best possible result. While most of the details are delegated to the production staff, several specifics are typically handled directly by the producer:

  • create budget (must be approved by the Managing Board)
  • schedule and run weekly production meetings, to track progress and coordinate efforts
  • arrange for archival videographic recording of the performance
  • complete event registration through the CAC office
  • arrange venue for cast party and organize refreshments

The Producer also has specific responsibilities under the Guild's Casting Notification Policy.

The Producer of the current show is especially encouraged to attend the weekly meetings of the Managing Board, to report on the status of the show and to request any needed assistance with outstanding issues.

When all is said and done, the principal role of the producer is to anticipate and address any problems that might arise during the production. The Guild has a separately maintained "Producer's Guide" which elaborates on the mechanics of these responsibilities.

Director

The Director is responsible for defining a coherent, consistent artistic interpretation (sometimes called a `concept' or `vision') for this production of the show (script and music). This interpretation might need to be revised during the early stages of production to accommodate casting or technical limitations.

The Director verbalizes the interpretation to the production staff to provide artistic coordination of their independent design efforts. Any specific technical requirements to accomplish this interpretation should be identified specifically as early in the process as possible.

The Director might articulate (elements of) the interpretation during auditions or at the first read through, but certainly continues to communicate it to the cast through the rehearsal process. The Director, while free to pursue any rehearsal techniques that are effective, must finalize the technical requirements and blocking in sufficient time to allow the production staff to complete their responsibilities.

At auditions, the Director works with the Music (Vocal) Director and Choreographer (if appropriate) to evaluate each candidate's capabilities and suitability for a role in the production. The Guild's casting policy requires that priority be given to members of the MIT community, and especially to MIT students.

Music Director

Because of the variety of skills required, the position of Music Director is sometimes split between two people -- Vocal Director and Orchestra Director. When this is the case, an extra effort is needed to ensure that they coordinate on tempos, musical interpretations, and optional variations in the music.

The Vocal Director runs the singing portion of auditions, evaluating each candidate's vocal range and singing ability. The Vocal Director is responsible for teaching the songs to the cast, including vocal interpretations that are consistent with the Director's artistic interpretation. It is common that vocal rehearsals dominate the earlier part of the rehearsal schedule.

The Orchestra Director is responsible for recruiting the instrumentalists needed for the show, which can range from a single piano or a small combo to a full-sized orchestra. Separate auditions (typically by appointment) should be held when practical. The Orchestra Director schedules and runs orchestra rehearsals separately, until rehearsals with the cast begin about a week before opening.

Choreographer

The Choreographer is responsible for designing dances that are consistent with the Director's artistic interpretation and coordinate with the cast's movements before and after the dance, and for teaching this choreography to the cast.

Depending on the requirements of the show, the role of Choreographer is sometimes filled by the Director or by a qualified member of the cast. For shows in which dance plays a major role, however, there will be a separate Choreographer who will participate in the audition process.

Stage Manager

The Stage Manager works through all phases of the production to encourage the best from the cast:

Technical Director

The Technical Director has overall responsibility for the technical aspects of the production:

  • Ensures that identified technical requirements don't `fall through the cracks' between different departments (sets, lights, props, costumes, sound). As needed, designs and constructs `special effects' that are not the direct responsibility of other departments.
  • Submits the set plan to CAC for safety review and shepherds its acceptance.
  • For productions in La Sala de Puerto Rico, develops the audience seating chart.
  • Coordinates the staffing of crews, including the incorporation of cast members.
  • Once it is available, manages use of the performance space outside rehearsals. Schedules and runs `move' (of the sets to the space), `put in' (installation of lights and sets), and `strike' (evacuation of the space).
  • Arranges a venue for the crew party and chairs its proceedings.

The TD often functions as a second (or in place of the) Master Carpenter to facilitate set construction through the rehearsal period.

Set Designer

  • requirements of script, director, music director, choreographer
  • location of orchestra/accompaniment
  • floor plan; use of space
  • set changes -- moving pieces
  • furniture
  • special effects
  • construction drawings
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