Head of Carpentry – Blue Man Group A New Holiday Surprise Tour

Stage Carpentry

 

 

 

 

Blue Man Group, part of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, is seeking an experienced Head of Carpentry to lead the Carpentry Department for the 2026 A New Holiday Surprise Touring production.

 

The Head of Carpentry is responsible for the construction, maintenance, and operation of all scenic elements, staging, truss systems, and automation components used in the show. This role oversees the safe assembly and disassembly of the set at each venue, ensures the structural integrity of all scenic elements, and leads a team of touring and local stage technicians to maintain the show’s technical and creative standards.

 

 

 

Scenic Operations and Maintenance

• Lead the Carpentry Department to achieve and sustain the desired technical and creative standards for each performance.
• Supervise and participate in the setup, maintenance, and operation of all scenic, deck, and automation elements of the show.
• Oversee the assembly and rigging of stage trusses, soft goods, platforms, and flown scenic pieces.
• Manage cue track documentation and oversee the safe operation of all automated elements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical or automation issues quickly to minimize show impact.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, maintenance, and repairs of all scenic and rigging components.
• Collaborate with the Production Manager and Technical Direction team to adapt scenic layouts and automation systems to fit each venue.
• Ensure the safety and reliability of all scenic structures, rigging, and automation operations at every stop.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Supervise, train, and mentor the Assistant Carpenter and any automation personnel, ensuring consistent show performance and safe practices.
• Oversee and direct local stage crews during load-ins, performances, and loadouts.
• Coordinate with the Production Manager, Head of Lighting, Head of Video, and Head of Props to ensure seamless integration of all technical departments.
• Participate in daily production meetings and post-show notes sessions to address technical issues or improvements.
• Work collaboratively with Stage Management to execute scene changes and ensure the onstage environment remains safe and organized.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment that supports safety, efficiency, and communication.

Touring and Load-In/Out

• Plan and manage all scenic load-ins and loadouts, ensuring safe and efficient installation and removal of all scenic and automation components.
• Direct truck packs and supervise the organization of touring equipment, truss, and scenic pieces for transport.
• Adapt setup procedures to accommodate venue-specific dimensions and logistical constraints.
• Maintain an ongoing dialogue with venue production personnel to ensure compliance with local rigging and safety regulations.
• Participate in venue advances and special projects as directed by the Production Manager.

Administration and Budget Management

• Oversee departmental purchasing, inventory, and budget in collaboration with the Production Manager.
  Track expenditures and forecast maintenance and replacement needs.
• Maintain documentation for scenic inspections, rigging certifications, and maintenance schedules.
• Support cost control by identifying opportunities for operational efficiencies while maintaining artistic integrity.

Safety

• Champion and enforce all Blue Man Group and CDSEG health and safety policies throughout all scenic and rigging operations.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, ANSI, and local venue safety standards.
• Conduct and document regular inspections of scenic and rigging equipment.
• Promote a proactive safety culture that prioritizes the well-being of performers, crew, and local staff.
• Collaborate with the Production Manager and Technical Direction team to address and correct potential safety issues immediately.

Key Attributes

• Excellent leadership and crew management skills.
• Strong technical understanding of stage carpentry, automation, and rigging systems.
• Effective communicator and collaborative team player.
• Calm, confident, and decisive under pressure.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and proactive in troubleshooting.
• Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and a commitment to safety and quality.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in Technical Theatre, Stagecraft, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in stage carpentry or technical direction for live productions, including touring experience.
• Strong knowledge of theatrical rigging, truss systems, automation, and mechanical systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading crews and executing load-ins and loadouts.
• Certification in rigging or automation operation preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and plans.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs. and work safely at heights.
• Must be able to travel domestically for extended periods (Nov 2026–Dec 2026) and maintain eligibility for U.S. employment and travel.

Compensation and Benefits

 

 

Blue Man Group is a global entertainment phenomenon known for its award-winning theatrical productions, iconic characters, and euphoric celebrations of human connection through art, music, and humor. Owned and operated by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, Blue Man Group performs in multiple long-running resident productions and international tours that have reached more than 35 million people worldwide.