World Theatre Day: ‘Production managers are unsung heroes of the theatre world’

Ahead of World Theatre Day on March 27, Rangbhoomi Spaces in Serilingampally, Hyderabad, buzzes with energy. Throughout the week, it hosts captivating performances and productions. But on a sultry Monday afternoon, it transforms into a photoshoot set, where seven theatre professionals recreate a Heera Mandi pose. Amid laughter and lively conversation, the all-women group celebrates sisterhood and the passion that drives their varied roles, particularly as theatre production managers.

In a candid conversation, they discuss their shared bond and why they see production managers as the unsung heroes of the theatre world.

Person in charge

A production manager (PM) is akin to a project delivery manager, overseeing every stage of the creative process to ensure a seamless production. Despite its significance, the role remains undefined and often thankless. From managing schedules and backstage operations to supervising costume, sound, set, and lighting teams, securing rehearsal spaces, fixing venues, handling publicity, and sharing ticket links, PMs work closely with both the technical crew and actors.

“In corporate terms, it’s end-to-end project delivery. The role lacks structure since every production is different, and those handling it rarely get recognition,” says Preksha Trivedi. With 12 years of backstage experience, she is a theatre producer, founder of Preksha Theatre Company (PTC), and co-founder of Rangbhoomi Spaces. Regardless of the theatre group, Preksha steps in to assist. “I don’t think I’m even noticed — while everyone discusses the play, I’m busy packing suitcases and folding clothes.”

PMs thrive behind the scenes, finding creative fulfilment in theatre despite going unnoticed. Theatre producer Chandni Agarwal of Yogi Bear Collective once managed a ₹6 lakh production with a 12-member team and just two actors. “Even with a large budget, only the actors are remembered, and people barely know I produced it. Unless you constantly put your name out there, no one pays attention. But I don’t mind — that’s just how it is.”

Multi-taskers

Kajol Dubey of KissaGo Theatre captures the backstage chaos with a series of animated facial expressions, sending the group into laughter. “The most important things in staging a play? Budget, the director’s well-being, playing therapist to the crew, managing people, minimising conflicts—and sometimes even organising the after-party once the play is done,” she says.

Kajol recalls her early days as a budding theatre actor in Delhi, mesmerised by the multitasking backstage navigators. “Watching them juggle everything behind the scenes was fascinating. They’re always called on stage last during the Curtain Call, after all the actors have taken their bows. But their job isn’t over yet—they still have to ensure everything runs smoothly even after the final applause.”

Nature to nurture

While the core responsibilities of a production manager remain consistent, the required skills can vary by city. In Hyderabad, the role blends stage management, backstage operations, and assisting a production house founder, says actor-director Pallavi Verma of Kriti Stories.

Pallavi honed her skills as a teenager in Jabalpur, performing with her Kathak guru, Beena Thakur. Working in the make-up and costume departments gave her a deep understanding of stagecraft. “Traditionally, production management was a male-dominated role, but it’s great to see that changing. Women have a natural ability to organise spaces — they instinctively handle costumes, track props, and know exactly when and where each item is needed.”

Harika Vedula shares this view, believing women excel as production managers because of their innate ability to nurture. An actor, production head, and founder of Popsicle Theatre and Manam Theatre Festival, she highlights the small yet significant details women bring to the role. “We instinctively know if someone in the team needs a sanitary napkin or if a toilet roll needs replenishing. This awareness of bodily needs makes artists feel more comfortable,” she says.

Spirit of teamwork

Veteran actor-director Nasreen Ishaque of Nibha Theatre Ensemble credits her training at the National School of Drama (NSD) for giving her confidence in the field. As a student, she was drawn to backstage work, which helped her develop a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of teamwork. Though acting is her expertise and direction her forte, she actively engages in various theatre departments — except for light design, which she regrets never learning. “Backstage operations are the backbone of any live performance. Men and women behind the scenes build it together, creating a sense of belonging and connection,” she says.

NSD alumnus Bhagyashree Tarke has only briefly worked in production during her decade-long theatre career. “I’ve done costume design and stage management, and I found joy in the process. Theatre is best experienced in all its forms,” she shares. She acknowledges that while Hyderabad lacks professionals solely dedicated to production management, many actors and directors take on the role, which she sees as a positive shift — especially as most of them are women. Gesturing toward the group around her, she adds, “I’m proud of Hyderabad theatre and the incredible women shaping it.”