Stage Carpentry & Props

 

 

We are looking for our next Swing Technician to join VStar Entertainment Group’s Touring Theatrical Crew. The main objective of this role is to assist across departments when needed. The position would be responsible for assisting with scene changes, show presents, and quick changes; learning backstage track as a replacement for other technicians; assisting with regular maintenance of all department equipment in an effort to maintain the artistic “look” of the event from performance and operational standpoints; and reflecting professionalism of the company and its equipment while adhering to Best Practice Safety Protocols.

 

 

The Swing Technician will have the opportunity to:

• Assist department heads and local crews as needed in the carpentry, electrics, sound, props, or wardrobe departments;
• Strive to maintain the artistic “look” of the show from performance and operation standpoints;
• Learn, memorize, and effectively perform backstage deck track assigned to role, and participate in cue track department rotation as directed by management;
• Assist with troubleshooting operation of show elements during performances;
• Participate in special projects installing show elements that may fall within the technician’s specialty as directed;
• Train local crews in each venue with backstage deck track assigned to locals;
• Assist in directing local crews during load in and load out;
• Assist with loading and unloading of trailers and show assets;
• Assist other departments in assembly and disassembly of the stage set and equipment;
• Maintain a flexible schedule for work calls, special events, rehearsal/training, maintenance and show performances; 
• Work with tour management to establish and maintain swing training and backup plans to ensure continuity of performance operations of the department in the event of unexpected failure of a system, component or piece of equipment; 
• Coordinate with and provide support as needed for other departments, production management, artistic management, and show support staff during rehearsals, training, load-in, load-out, and performances to maintain safe and consistent tour operation; 
• Assist with managing inventory of show supplies, working with department heads and tour management to procure replacements and stock as needed;
• Create, update and accurately maintain cue sheets and show documentation, and participate in cue track rotation as directed;  
• Assist in the development and implementation of preventative maintenance routines and inspections – particularly life safety and show critical;
• Adhere to and promote all Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations as they pertain to the safe operation of all elements related to the show; participate in all required health and safety classes and emergency rescue procedure training;
• Uphold responsibility for own professional standards of conduct, appearance, workmanship, and personal safety as set forth by VStar Entertainment with fellow tour members, outside vendors, local labor, and clients;
• Perform other work-related tasks and projects as assigned by department head and tour management;

 What does it take for this role? The following hard skills are the basics of what’s needed to be successful in this position:

• Related experience, or combination of training and/or education in technical theater as it relates to live performances in any of the following departments: carpentry, electrics, sound, props, and/or wardrobe;
• Experience as a deck hand in backstage settings as it relates to a live performance;
• Knowledge of hand tools and some power tools;
• Basic understanding of theatrical terms and directions;
• Ability to effectively navigate a crowded theatrical backstage work area during load ins, performances, and load outs;
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals;
• Ability to understand instructions in oral, written and diagram form in order to apply common sense to troubleshoot and solve problems;
• Willingness to work extensive and irregular work hours; early morning, afternoon, evening, late evening, weekend, and holidays is common;
• Experience with loading in and loading out in a theatrical setting preferred;
• Touring experience appreciated but not required;
• If required for position, be an active IATSE union member or willingness to join;
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken;
• If applicable for the tours travel schedule must be and remain in good standing with all proper authorities throughout the Services Period, including maintaining the validity of one’s passport and the ability to travel internationally;
• CDSEG employees travelling in countries where COVID-19 vaccination proofs are required will still need to comply with these requirements as a condition of employment;
• Verification of the right to work in the United States for Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, as demonstrated by completion of the Form I-9 upon hire and the submission of acceptable documentation (as noted on the Form I-9) verifying one’s identity and work authorization;
• Able to pass a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, credit, criminal, DMV, previous employment, education, and personal references, per Company policy, unless prohibited by federal, state, or provincial law;