What Type of Person Thrives in the Theater Industry, According to a Production Manager at Hamilton the Musical
Franklin, a Production Manager, emphasizes a strong work ethic, "putting in your dues," and adaptability as crucial for success in the entertainment industry, navigating both financial and creative aspects. A passion for the art form is paramount, as "we look for that passion first," believing skills can be taught, but enthusiasm is irreplaceable.
Work Ethic, Adaptability, Passion, Creativity, Financial Acumen
Advizer Information
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Job Title
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Undergrad
Grad Programs
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Traits
Franklin Swann
Production Manager
Hamilton the Musical/Hudson Theatrical Associates
NYU/Tisch School of the Arts - 2015
UCLA Anderson School of Management
Film, Media Arts, Visual Arts
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Operations and Project Management
Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. A strong work ethic is crucial, especially in the early years, involving long hours and various tasks.
2. Flexibility and adaptability are essential as the job demands navigating diverse roles, from financial management to creative collaboration.
3. Passion for the industry is key; enthusiasm for art and entertainment demonstrates a strong commitment and willingness to learn necessary skills
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in your industry?
I think a wide range of people can succeed in this world, but there are a few underlying things that are critical to your success. One is a really strong work ethic. Particularly in your younger years, you'll do a lot of long days, maybe not for a ton of pay.
You'll do tasks at the bottom of the totem pole, like getting coffee or updating a spreadsheet. You have to have a strong work ethic to understand that you're paying your dues now to reach your endpoint.
Being flexible and adaptable is also really important. In my job, sometimes I'm a financial wizard, figuring out how to move money around to stay within budget. Other days, I'm a creative executive, brainstorming with a designer on how to make something look more interesting or what colors to use. Being able to navigate those two worlds is really important.
Lastly, you really need to have a passion for what you're doing. It's a passion-driven industry, and that comes through. You want to come to work excited to talk about a new TV show, script, or piece of art.
Understanding where all these forces come together to create art and being excited about it will go so far. When I'm hiring people, I often look for that passion first. I believe I can help teach you some skills you might be lacking. If you've never done professional rigging before, we can teach you that. But if you don't care and don't want to be here, I can't help you with that. Those sorts of things really come through when you're a young person trying to break into the industry.
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