Show Director: missions, skills, training, salary and career development

With the rise in the number of concerts, international festivals, orchestras and opera performances, the role of Show Director has become central to the coordination and success of these events. This job involves the artistic and administrative management of a variety of shows, including opera, music festivals and circus performances. The Show Director must combine an artistic vision with managerial skills to ensure the success of productions.

Description of the job of Show Director

The Show Director is responsible for planning, organising and managing artistic events. He coordinates the teams, supervises production and promotes the shows. Their role is crucial in maintaining artistic quality while respecting budgetary and logistical constraints.

What is the role and remit of the Show Director?

Developing the artistic programme

The Show Director develops the artistic programme by choosing the shows, artists and productions to be staged. They work closely with directors, composers and musicians to define a coherent and attractive programme.

Managing and optimising productions

He oversees all stages of production, from conception to completion. This includes managing the stage managers, technicians and artistic teams to ensure that the performances run smoothly.

Performance analysis and reporting

The Show Director analyses attendance and audience satisfaction data to assess the performance of shows. They submit detailed reports to management and suggest improvements for future productions.

Relations with the public and partners

He is responsible for relations with the public, partners and sponsors. The Show Director works to boost the visibility and reputation of events by developing strategic partnerships and ensuring effective communication.

Tools and technologies used by the Show Director

Project management tools

Tools such as Trello, Asana and Monday.com are used to organise and track the various stages of artistic projects.

Ticketing and CRM tools

Ticketing and audience relationship management (CRM) systems are essential for managing bookings, subscriptions and audience feedback.

Communication and promotional tools

Communication platforms such as MailChimp, Hootsuite, and Buffer are used to promote shows and engage audiences on social networks.

What skills do you need to be a good Show Director?

Professional skills:

• Expertise in artistic project management.
• In-depth knowledge of the different types of shows and their staging.
• Financial and budgetary management skills.
• Mastery of communication and promotional tools.

Personal skills:

• Leadership and ability to manage multidisciplinary teams.
• Creativity and artistic vision to develop innovative projects.
• Rigour and organisation to manage administrative and logistical aspects.
• Adaptability to deal with unforeseen circumstances and the specific requirements of each show.

What are the current challenges facing a Show Director?

Rapidly evolving technologies and practices

The entertainment sector is evolving rapidly with the emergence of new technologies and practices. Show Managers must constantly train and adapt to stay competitive.

Managing the quality and quantity of shows

Maintaining a balance between artistic quality and quantity of shows is crucial to ensuring audience satisfaction and financial viability.

Return on investment (ROI)

Measuring and justifying the ROI of productions is an ongoing challenge. Show Managers need to use analytical tools to assess performance and adjust strategies accordingly.

How do I become a Show Director?

Education and training

To become a Show Director, you generally need a 5-year degree in cultural management, performing arts or arts management. The following courses are particularly popular:

• Master's degree in cultural management.
• MBA in arts and cultural management.
• Diploma from ahigher national school specialising in the arts and culture.

EM Normandie also offers a MSc International Events Management that specifically trains students for careers in the events industry, providing comprehensive training tailored to the requirements of the sector.

Professional experience

Significant experience in positions of responsibility in artistic project management is essential. Internships or assistant positions in festivals, theatres or production companies are key steps on the way to becoming a Show Director.

What are the career prospects for a Show Director?

• Progression to Production Director or Artistic Director.
• Opportunities in major cultural institutions, international festivals or audiovisual production agencies.
• Possibility of becoming an arts management consultant or setting up your own consultancy.
• Transition to managing director or artistic advisor.

What does a Show Director earn?

The salary of a Show Director varies according to experience, the size of the company and the sector of activity:

• Beginner: Gross annual salary (approx.): €30,000 - €40,000
• 2-5 years' experience: Gross annual salary (approx.): €40,000 - €55,000
• 5+ years' experience: Gross annual salary (approx.): €55,000 and more (with possible bonuses)

What does a Show Director do?

A variety of employers:

Show Managers can work in a variety of organisations, including:

• Major cultural institutions and international groups.
• SMEs and start-ups in the cultural sector.
• Production and communicationsagencies.
• Associations and not-for-profit organisations.

Main areas of expertise:

An Entertainment Director works in a number of sectors, including:

• Music festivals: managing programming and production strategies.
• Lyric and dramatic shows: coordinating artistic and technical teams.
• Audiovisual: Production of shows and artistic projects for the media.
• Visual and contemporary arts: Organising exhibitions and artistic events.

In summary

The job of Show Director is essential to the success of artistic and cultural projects. As the central pillar of production activities, they play a crucial role in organising and coordinating events ranging from concerts to international festivals. Their skills in project management, artistic direction and management are essential for guaranteeing the quality and impact of shows. This dynamic profession offers many career opportunities and a chance to make a significant contribution to culture and the arts.