Question 1

What does a stagehand actually do?

Accepted Answer

Stagehands are responsible for the physical setup, operation and breakdown of event equipment including staging, lighting, sound systems and props. They work behind the scenes to ensure smooth technical operations during live events, concerts, theatre productions and corporate functions. The role requires physical fitness and technical aptitude.

Question 2

What award covers stagehands in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Stagehands are typically covered by either the Live Performance Award 2020 (MA000081) for theatre and performing arts venues, or the Amusement, Events and Recreation Award 2020 (MA000080) for broader event settings. The specific award depends on the employer and type of venue. Always verify which award applies to your organisation.

Question 3

What is the difference between a stagehand and a technician?

Accepted Answer

Stagehands focus on physical setup, equipment handling and manual labour tasks during bump-in/bump-out. Technicians typically have specialized technical skills in areas like sound engineering, lighting design or rigging, and may operate complex systems during performances. Stagehands support technicians with equipment movement and setup.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a stagehand job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties and allowances.' Event work often includes penalty rates for evening, night and weekend work. Check the relevant award for current rates.

Question 5

What qualifications do stagehands need?

Accepted Answer

No formal qualifications are strictly required for entry-level stagehand positions, though relevant certificates can be advantageous. White Card (Construction Induction) is highly valued for staging and rigging work. First Aid certification and Working at Heights certification are important for safety. Experience and demonstrated aptitude are often as important as formal qualifications.

Question 6

Do stagehands need any safety certifications?

Accepted Answer

Yes, safety certifications are important for stagework. White Card (General Construction Induction) is highly recommended. Working at Heights certification is required for any elevated work. First Aid and CPR certificates are valuable. Manual handling training is essential given the physical nature of the role. Specific venues may have additional safety requirements.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a stagehand?

Accepted Answer

For entry-level positions, look for physical fitness, willingness to learn and ability to follow instructions. For experienced roles, seek previous stage crew or events experience, familiarity with staging equipment and rigging systems, understanding of health and safety protocols, and ability to work efficiently under time pressure during bump-in/bump-out.

Question 8

Can I hire stagehands without experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many stagehands start in entry-level positions without prior experience. Look for candidates with physical fitness, technical aptitude, safety awareness and ability to work in team environments. Provide on-the-job training, clear supervision and progressive skill development opportunities.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent stagehands?

Accepted Answer

Most event and production companies rely heavily on casual stagehands due to the irregular nature of event work. Casual arrangements provide flexibility to scale crew based on event schedules. However, venues with regular programming may employ permanent part-time or full-time stagehands. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to stagehands?

Accepted Answer

Under both the Live Performance Award and Amusement, Events and Recreation Award, penalty rates apply for: evening work (typically after 7pm), night work, Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays and overtime. Events often occur outside standard hours. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for stagehands?

Accepted Answer

Under relevant awards, minimum engagement periods apply — typically 3-4 hours depending on the specific award and classification. Event calls (bump-in and bump-out) can be unpredictable in duration. Clearly communicate expected shift lengths and potential for overtime in the job description.

Question 12

What should I include in a stagehand employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, main duties including bump-in/bump-out, work locations and venues, shift patterns including evenings and weekends, physical requirements, and safety requirements including PPE. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance can I roster stagehands?

Accepted Answer

Event schedules can be unpredictable, but under relevant awards, you should provide as much notice as practicable. While casual stagehands offer flexibility, providing advance notice improves staff availability and satisfaction. Using rostering software helps communicate event schedules and crew requirements efficiently.

Question 14

Can I require stagehands to work irregular hours?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the nature of event work involves irregular hours including evenings, nights and weekends. Be clear about these expectations in the job description. Ensure you pay applicable penalty rates for work outside standard hours. Stagehands typically understand and accept irregular scheduling as part of the role.

Question 15

What breaks are stagehands entitled to during long bump-in/bump-out?

Accepted Answer

Under relevant awards, employees are entitled to rest breaks and meal breaks based on the length of their engagement. For bump-in/bump-out that extends over many hours, plan for scheduled breaks while maintaining workflow efficiency. Use break planning tools to manage breaks during long event calls.

Question 16

How do I schedule stagehands efficiently for multiple events?

Accepted Answer

Track crew availability and skills in your rostering system, communicate event schedules and requirements clearly, allow adequate rest time between long event calls, and maintain a pool of reliable casual crew for peak periods. Use rostering software to manage complex event schedules and crew allocation.

Stagehand job description