Theatre Manager Onboarding Checklist

Theatre Manager Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Theatre Manager starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Entertainment onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Theatre Manager, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Theatre Manager onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Theatre Manager Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to the company: The new theatre manager should be provided with a comprehensive introduction to the company, including its history, mission, values, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated company representative.

2. Familiarization with the theatre facilities: The new theatre manager should be given a tour of the entire theatre complex, including all performance spaces, backstage areas, dressing rooms, technical booths, and storage areas. This task is usually performed by a senior theatre staff member or the technical director.

3. Introduction to the staff: The new theatre manager should be introduced to all staff members, including administrative personnel, technical crew, box office staff, ushers, and other relevant team members. This task is typically performed by the HR department or the general manager.

4. Review of policies and procedures: The new theatre manager should receive a thorough review of all company policies and procedures, including those related to safety, security, ticketing, scheduling, budgeting, and customer service. This task is usually performed by the HR department or the general manager.

5. Training on ticketing and box office systems: The new theatre manager should receive training on the ticketing and box office systems used by the company. This includes learning how to sell tickets, manage seating charts, process refunds, and generate reports. This task is typically performed by the box office manager or a designated staff member.

6. Introduction to the artistic programming: The new theatre manager should be provided with an overview of the company’s artistic programming, including upcoming productions, guest artists, and special events. This task is usually performed by the artistic director or the programming team.

7. Budget and financial management training: The new theatre manager should receive training on budgeting and financial management processes, including how to create and manage budgets, track expenses, and generate financial reports. This task is typically performed by the finance department or the general manager.

8. Familiarization with technical equipment: The new theatre manager should be familiarized with the technical equipment used in the theatre, including lighting, sound, rigging, and stage machinery. This task is usually performed by the technical director or the head of the technical department.

9. Introduction to marketing and promotional strategies: The new theatre manager should be introduced to the company’s marketing and promotional strategies, including social media campaigns, advertising initiatives, and audience development programs. This task is typically performed by the marketing department or the marketing manager.

10. Review of health and safety protocols: The new theatre manager should receive a comprehensive review of all health and safety protocols, including emergency procedures, fire safety, first aid, and occupational health guidelines. This task is usually performed by the health and safety officer or a designated staff member.

11. Introduction to union agreements: If applicable, the new theatre manager should be introduced to any union agreements that the company has with theatrical unions, such as Actors’ Equity Association or IATSE. This task is typically performed by the HR department or the general manager.

12. Networking opportunities: The new theatre manager should be provided with networking opportunities, such as introductions to industry professionals, attending industry events, and joining relevant professional organizations. This task is usually facilitated by the HR department or the general manager.

13. Performance evaluation and goal setting: The new theatre manager should participate in a performance evaluation and goal-setting session to establish clear expectations and objectives for their role. This task is typically performed by the HR department or the general manager.

14. Ongoing professional development: The new theatre manager should be encouraged to engage in ongoing professional development opportunities, such as attending workshops, conferences, or training programs related to theatre management. This task is usually supported by the HR department or the general manager.

15. Mentorship or buddy system: The new theatre manager should be assigned a mentor or a buddy within the company who can provide guidance, support, and answer any questions they may have during their initial period. This task is typically facilitated by the HR department or the general manager

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Theatre Manager checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Theatre Manager up to speed and working well in your Entertainment team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.