Alvin Ailey American Dance TheaterProduction Assistant
Position SummaryThe Production Assistant supports the Production Stage Manager (PSM), Company Management, production crew, and dancers of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT). Reporting to the PSM, the Production Assistant calls assigned ballets. They also handle the daily studio, stage, documentation, and video work that keeps rehearsals and performances running safely and on schedule.
The position covers rehearsal and performance weeks in New York, domestic and international tours, and special events.
The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, and detail-oriented. They complete recurring work accurately and on time, follow established procedures, and communicate promptly. The candidate must have strong communication, time management, and interpersonal skills and a self-motivated, dedicated work ethic. They help maintain a safe and positive working environment.
Essential Job Responsibilities
Rehearsals and Studios
Prepare studios before company class and rehearsals according to department checklists. This includes floor tape and spike marks, barres, temperature, lighting, the sound system, and iPads with the correct rehearsal music. It also includes chairs for the artistic team and guests, set-up for musicians, requested props, and video equipment.
Check spaces and equipment before every call. Keep rehearsal spaces orderly and free of obstructions, and report hazards or equipment problems to the PSM promptly.
Start and break company class and rehearsals on time, observing required break intervals, and record accurate start and end times.
Take attendance at the start of each call. Notify the PSM and artistic staff immediately of absences or late arrivals, and follow up with missing dancers.
Maintain the callboard as the dancers’ central source of information.
Maintain the privacy of rehearsal rooms and company floors.
Performances, Technical Calls, and Tours
Call assigned ballets and follow cue sheets as directed by the PSM.
Supervise activities and personnel on stage during rehearsals, performances, and technical calls. This includes giving time calls, tracking sign-in and attendance, and supporting crew with props, scenery, and costume changes.
Assist with load-in and load-out. This includes directing truck unload, posting venue signage and walking directions from hotel to venue, and setting up dressing rooms. It also includes monitoring temperatures, safety-taping backstage areas, and documenting venues with photos.
Maintain first aid kit supplies for stage and rehearsal use.
Assist Company Management with air and bus travel, including airport transfers and city-to-city travel. Account for all assigned dancers in transit and on arrival.
Documentation and Administration
Prepare, proofread, and distribute daily schedules, casting sheets, cue sheets, sign-in sheets, run times, performance reports, theater checklists, venue reports, and other paperwork. Use the required formats and meet posting deadlines.
Verify details before submitting paperwork, including studio and dancer conflicts, casting, fittings, accompanist assignments, and program accuracy.
Post casting changes and communicate them to dancers, artistic staff, wardrobe, marketing, and Company Management according to department procedures.
Process paperwork for company class teachers and accompanists, and submit accurate timesheet information for weekly payroll.
Prepare materials and take notes for production and new works meetings.
Run production errands as needed.
Maintain accurate inventory of production equipment and office supplies, and verify stock before reporting shortages or requesting purchases.
Video Archiving
Set up cameras and verify their settings before each recorded rehearsal and performance.
Record, edit, upload, back up, and manage rehearsal and performance footage and storage media according to department procedures. Maintain the AAADT video archives.
Work Standards
Complete recurring…