Stage Management/Production Positions

Totem Pole Playhouse
Fayetteville, PA
US

CONTACT NAME

Kia Armstrong

Job Details

DESCRIPTION

Totem Pole Playhouse – 2026 SM/Admin Positions

General Information

Totem Pole Playhouse, Pennsylvania’s premier professional summer theatre, is located within the breathtaking 1,200-acre Caledonia State Park between Gettysburg and Chambersburg, PA. We are currently seeking seasonal Production/Admin staff to join us for our 76th Season where we offer both Equity productions and guest presentations, including “Tucked Away Treasures”, as part of our summer series. The award-winning Playhouse has a stellar industry reputation, with the New York Times describing Totem Pole Playhouse as, “the Cadillac of summer theaters.”

The 2026 season schedule runs from May 29th through August 30th. While there may be some flexibility with start and end dates, applicants are encouraged to be available for the entire season.

2026 Summer Series Shows:

A Night with Janis Joplin
Come From Away
Oscar & Felix: A New Look at the Odd Couple
South Pacific
Karen Hester as “Dolly”
Tucked Away Treasure series & Summer Camp Performances

Most shows include a 2.5-day strike/load-in and three days of technical rehearsals, creating the unique—and occasionally hectic—pace of traditional summer stock theatre. When operational, Totem Pole Playhouse maintains fully staffed private scenic and costume shops. For certain staff positions, complimentary housing is available in shared staff accommodations, each offering a private bedroom. Housing locations are conveniently situated as close as 2 miles and no further than 20 miles from the work site. Limited access to company vehicles is also provided, as needed. All positions include weekly salaries. Depending on the role and responsibilities, some positions meet the threshold for overtime-exempt status, while others are eligible for overtime compensation in compliance with applicable PA labor laws.

As part of our ongoing growth, Totem Pole Playhouse is implementing several new operational approaches this season. While these adjustments are being made thoughtfully and with intention, some processes may evolve as the season progresses. We are seeking team members who are adaptable, solution-oriented, and excited to collaborate in an environment that values flexibility, communication, and creative problem-solving in the face of occasional unknowns.

Seasonal Agreement Dates:
On or around May 11th, 2025 – On or around Aug 30th 2026 (Start & End dates vary by department. Arrival waves between May 11th - 26th, Departure waves between August 2nd - 30th, 2025)

*Totem Pole Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Positions available:

Stage Management Production Assistant (Non-Equity):
This is a flexible and dynamic role that requires attendance at all public performances and rehearsals as needed, supporting the AEA Stage Management team and Production Departments across musicals, plays, and a rotating concert series. In addition to serving as part of the running crew for productions, this position also assists other production departments as needed during prep, builds, and maintenance periods. This floating role offers an excellent opportunity for individuals with an interest in learning and contributing to various technical theatre disciplines. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong communication skills, the ability to work effectively under pressure, and enthusiasm for teamwork across departments. This position reports to the Production Manager and AEA Production Stage Manager, with tasks and supervision dependent on the department being supported.

Key Responsibilities:

Running Crew Support:
• Serve on the running crew during performances and rehearsals, fulfilling track assignments with focus and precision.
• Perform daily preset checks to ensure the show and backstage areas are properly prepared and safe.
• Collaborate with Stage Management during tech rehearsals to develop and execute deck tracks.

Rehearsal Room Support (as schedule allows):
• Provide production and logistical support in the rehearsal room under the guidance of the AEA Production Stage Manager or AEA Assistant Stage Manager.
• Assist with rehearsal room setup, daily resets, and room maintenance, including furniture, props, spike tape, and basic technical needs.
• Support the AEA Stage Management team by tracking rehearsal needs and communicating requests to the appropriate departments.
• Help maintain a focused, organized, and professional rehearsal environment.

Departmental Assistance:
• Support other production departments as capacity allows, including Scenic, Props, Stage Management, Wardrobe, Audio, and Electrics.
• Assist with builds, load-ins, and production-related transportation.
• Perform maintenance and repairs on props, scenic elements, and other production assets.

General Duties:
• Help maintain a safe, clean, and organized workspace backstage and in shops.
• Contribute to creating a focused and professional backstage environment during performances.
• Participate in strike and other post-show activities as required.
• Assist with Totem Pole Playhouse’s “Tucked Away Treasures” Series and Camp Performances, as needed.

Requirements:
• Basic technical theatre experience across multiple disciplines preferred.
• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs., work on tall ladders, and perform tasks requiring physical stamina.
• Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and long shifts as necessary.

Weekly Salary Range: $400–425 DOE

To Apply: Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]

Associate Production Manager / Swing Technician:
The Associate Production Manager / Swing Technician supports the Production Manager in the planning, coordination, and execution of all technical and production operations for Totem Pole Playhouse’s season. This position is a hybrid role combining production management responsibilities with hands-on technical support and serves as a key day-to-day management presence. Approximately 60% of the role focuses on production management support, with 40% dedicated to swing technical duties as needed throughout the season.

This position attends production meetings, assists with communication and documentation, supports summer camp programming, and provides on-site leadership in the scenic shop and performance spaces. The Associate Production Manager / Swing Technician must be highly organized, adaptable, and comfortable shifting between administrative tasks and physical technical work.

Duties include:
• Attending weekly production meetings and taking clear, organized meeting minutes for distribution.
• Assisting the Production Manager with scheduling, coordination, and day-to-day production logistics.
• Serving as the Production Manager for Totem Pole Playhouse’s summer camp programs, including coordination with instructors, staff, and facilities.
• Maintaining regular hours in the scenic shop office to provide a consistent management presence and answer questions from production staff.
• Supporting interdepartmental communication and helping track deadlines, notes, and action items.
• Running production-related errands, managing pickups/drop-offs, and assisting with supply coordination as needed.
• Providing hands-on support during load-ins, strikes, changeovers, and technical rehearsals.
• Assisting with lighting focus, basic electrics work, and other technical needs as assigned.
• Serving as a swing technician, stepping in to run shows or cover technical positions when necessary.
• Supporting safe work practices and helping maintain an organized and efficient production environment.
• Other duties traditionally assigned to production management or swing technical positions in live theatrical production.

Requirements:
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to track multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Prior experience in production management, stage management, or technical theatre.
• Comfort working hands-on in technical environments, including assisting with strikes, focus, and changeovers.
• Ability to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by the production schedule.
• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs. and work in active shop and performance environments.
• Self-motivated, flexible, and solution-oriented with a calm presence under pressure.
• Experience running shows or working as a swing technician is a plus.

Salary Range: $500-550 DOE

To Apply: Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]

DURATION

May 11, 2026 - Aug 16, 2026

SALARY

$400.00 – $550.00 per week

HOW TO APPLY

APPLY BY EMAIL

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