House manager – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Dance Production Glossary

I. What is a House Manager?

A house manager is a key member of the production team responsible for overseeing the front of house operations during a performance or event. They are the primary point of contact for audience members and are tasked with ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees. House managers are typically employed by theaters, performance venues, or event spaces and play a crucial role in the overall success of a production.

II. What are the Responsibilities of a House Manager?

House managers have a wide range of responsibilities that encompass both logistical and customer service duties. Some of the key responsibilities of a house manager include:

– Supervising ushers and other front of house staff
– Managing ticket sales and distribution
– Ensuring the safety and comfort of audience members
– Handling customer inquiries and complaints
– Coordinating with the production team to ensure a seamless experience for attendees
– Overseeing the cleanliness and maintenance of the front of house areas
– Implementing emergency procedures in case of an incident

Overall, the house manager plays a crucial role in creating a positive and welcoming environment for audience members and ensuring the overall success of a production.

III. How Does a House Manager Prepare for a Dance Production?

Before a dance production, the house manager must work closely with the production team to ensure that all front of house operations are running smoothly. This includes coordinating with ushers to ensure that they are properly trained and prepared to assist audience members, as well as overseeing ticket sales and distribution to ensure that all attendees are accounted for.

Additionally, the house manager must work with the production team to create a seating plan that maximizes the audience’s viewing experience and ensures that all attendees are seated in a timely and efficient manner. They may also be responsible for coordinating with vendors to provide concessions or merchandise for sale during the performance.

IV. What is the Role of a House Manager During a Dance Production?

During a dance production, the house manager is responsible for overseeing all front of house operations and ensuring that the audience’s experience is as enjoyable as possible. This includes managing ushers and other front of house staff to ensure that they are providing excellent customer service and assisting audience members as needed.

The house manager also plays a crucial role in coordinating with the production team to ensure that the performance runs smoothly and that any issues or concerns are addressed promptly. They may be responsible for making announcements to the audience, coordinating with the stage manager to ensure that the performance stays on schedule, and handling any emergencies or incidents that may arise during the production.

V. How Does a House Manager Ensure the Safety and Comfort of Audience Members?

One of the primary responsibilities of a house manager is to ensure the safety and comfort of all audience members during a dance production. This includes implementing safety procedures and protocols to address any potential hazards or emergencies that may arise, such as fire evacuations or medical emergencies.

The house manager may also be responsible for ensuring that the venue is accessible to all attendees, including those with disabilities or special needs. This may involve coordinating with the production team to provide accommodations such as wheelchair access or sign language interpreters.

Additionally, the house manager plays a key role in ensuring that the venue is clean and well-maintained, and that all amenities such as restrooms and concessions are in working order. By creating a safe and comfortable environment for audience members, the house manager helps to enhance the overall experience of the performance.

VI. How Does a House Manager Handle Emergencies During a Dance Production?

In the event of an emergency during a dance production, the house manager must be prepared to act quickly and decisively to ensure the safety of all audience members. This may involve implementing emergency procedures such as evacuating the venue, contacting emergency services, or providing first aid to injured individuals.

The house manager must also be able to communicate effectively with the production team, ushers, and other staff members to ensure that everyone is aware of the situation and knows how to respond. They may need to make announcements to the audience to provide instructions or updates on the situation, and coordinate with the stage manager to ensure that the performance is halted or rescheduled if necessary.

Overall, the house manager plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety and well-being of all attendees during a dance production and must be prepared to handle any emergencies that may arise. By staying calm under pressure and acting quickly and decisively, the house manager helps to ensure that the performance can continue safely and smoothly.