What even is a producer?

We think of them like grand coordinators of the tasks and responsibilities involved in developing, rehearsing and staging an event, performance, exhibition or installation.

A producer is a facilitator. The specifics of the role can vary depending on their particular skill set, and the skills and strengths of other team mates.

Some producers might be very involved in the creative/conceptual development of a production while others might have nothing to do with what happens inside the rehearsal room. If you’ve got a great director and some wonderful actors, but no marketing manager, then that’s where your producer should be devoting their attention. Good producers know what it takes to get quality shows together and will make those tasks their priority. They simply Get. $#it. Done.

Let’s be real, if you’re reading this pack then your producer might be YOU!

Building your team & approach

At Fringe, we like hats. That’s why we wear so many – often being artists, producers and venue managers, all at once. If you’re like us, it can be a good idea to get a core team together early on in the process and be really clear about who does what.

You as the project manager or producer are responsible for setting the pace and tone of your projects. In saying that, you often can’t do it alone. So the first question is… who do you need on your team to make this project into a reality?

Building your team

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself to get started. You might be surprised by some of the roles and tasks, but don’t sweat – we have heaps of info on how to get the job done and hone the skills you need to feel totally confident.

Who is your producer?

• Who finds the venue and signs the contracts?
• Who answers the emails and phone calls?
• Who handles the box office and other finances?

Who is leading your marketing & publicity campaign?

• Who can write a punchy blurb and press release?
• Who can help you get a killer promo image?
• Who can social media like a boss?
• Who can coordinate your invitations?

It’s likely you won’t need ALL of these kinds of collaborators, but here are a few suggestions of roles to get on board for your Festival season:

• Performers
• Director
• Writer
• Musicians
• Visual Artists
• Digital Media
• Scenic Designer
• Dramaturg
• Choreographer
• Photographer/Videographer
• Lighting Designer
• Sound Designer
• Costume Designer
• Production Manager
• Front of House Manager
• Broadcast/Technical Manager

Once you've assembled your team, don't be afraid to speak with your team early and be clear on expectations from the start. Are you working on a profit share model, or to a fixed fee? Be clear and ensure everyone you’re working with is on the same page.

Building your approach

Your budget

Keep track of everything. Hold on to all receipts, and make sure you get invoices from any collaborators if you plan to pay them out of your box office takings.

Check out our budget template if you need a hand.