Music theater
producers choose the cast and the crew for their productions.
Music theater includes the stage productions of musicals and operas. The producers are usually self-employed, versatile managers who bring together creative talent, performers and technical experts to set up the best possible production. The role of the producer demands considerable financial knowledge, good contacts within the musical and stage trades, and the ability to discover and nurture talent.
Sourcing Material
Musical producers must be self-driven. They must take the initiative to find suitable scripts and scores they feel confident can succeed. They are familiar with works by scriptwriters and composers, and will match creative teams to get a play and a score written. Producers may be approached by scriptwriters or composers with readily prepared material. Some producers involve themselves in the creative process by suggesting rewrites, plots and music. A producer also hires a director and musical director.
Choice of Venue
Producers have to approach theaters to stage their productions. They must negotiate with several theaters over details such as seasonal placement, stage size, and box office shares. For touring shows, the producer has to identify and book enough venues to support the cost of the production.
Financing
Musicals are not financed from one single source. A producer has to gather money from sponsors and private backers, and some often have to take out loans to support the shows. The raised funds need to cover all of the production costs. That can include wages for all talent and staff, the set design and the costumes. The producer is financially responsible for the production. He must prepare regular reports for his backers to account for all expenses.
Cast and Crew
The producer can also help select key cast members and the crew. Crew positions, including lighting, set and costume design, are often sent out for tender. Companies that provide those services may send a bid for their work on the production. It falls to the producer to evaluate the proposals and make the final choice. On some occasions, the producer might have regular co-operators from previous productions who will follow him from project to project.
Marketing
The producer's marketing duties include handling a budget for advertisements. This covers advertisements as well as logos and poster designs. Producers usually hire publicists to deal with the media, but they may help arrange special events where multiple media members can review the show or interview cast members. If a production is particularly successful, the producer will arrange for it to be recorded for commercial release.
