In theater, it takes a dedicated team to bring a production to life. While the actors are the most visible contributors—memorizing lines, attending rehearsals, and delivering captivating performances on stage—their work represents just one part of the whole. Behind the scenes, an equally vital group works to ensure the show runs seamlessly, often without recognition.
Stage crew member Carter Sowul offers insight into this hidden world. “The director focuses on what the actors do, but we’re the ones who make the set, move things around, and help guide people on how to use props,” Carter explains.
Though the stage crew may occasionally be spotted darting across the stage during a blackout, most of their contributions are invisible to the audience. From crafting and organizing props to orchestrating quick set changes, the team plays a critical role in bringing the director’s vision to life.
The crew starts their work long before opening night. They build the sets and props, paying careful attention to detail to ensure every piece fits the tone and narrative of the show. During rehearsals and performances, they’re responsible for positioning the props and set pieces precisely where they need to be, all while advising actors on how to use them effectively. When something breaks or needs a touch-up, it’s the stage crew that steps in, repainting, repairing, and improvising solutions on the fly.
To manage these responsibilities, the stage crew divides their work into specific roles. The stage manager oversees the entire team, making critical decisions about set placement and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. The lighting technician creates the mood and atmosphere of each scene, adjusting brightness, colors, and effects to match the director’s intent. Meanwhile, the props crew designs, maintains, and organizes the tools and items actors use to enhance their performances.
This intricate teamwork isn’t without its challenges. If one person falls behind or an unexpected issue arises, it often falls on the rest of the crew to step in and pick up the slack. The pressure can be intense, but for those who thrive in this environment, the rewards far outweigh the difficulties.
,” Carter shares. This sentiment captures the essence of what makes backstage work so appealing—being part of the magic while staying behind the curtain.
As audiences marvel at the flow of a live performance, they rarely pause to consider the effort required to make it all happen. The props, the sets, the lighting—all of it stems from the creativity and dedication of the stage crew. Each intricate detail reflects countless hours of hard work, collaboration, and problem-solving.
So, the next time you attend a play, take a moment to look beyond the actors. Notice the props that help tell the story, the sets that create the world, and the lighting that sets the mood.
