Production Stage Manager

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Co; Durango (CO); On-site; USD 29,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. is seeking a Production Stage Manager to lead all aspects of The Polar Express Train Ride performances in Durango, Colorado.

You will oversee rehearsals, supervise cast and stage staff, and ensure shows meet licensing and production standards while delivering a safe, high-quality guest experience. Collaborating with Front of House, Train Operations, Facilities, Security and other departments, you will coordinate timing, props, costumes, and event

Qualifications

• Previous experience in stage management or live theatre.
• Ability to supervise cast and crew with safety and quality focus.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Availability for evenings, weekends, and extended seasonal hours.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate rehearsals and live performances for The Polar Express Train Ride.
• Ensure safety, licensing, and production standards for all shows.
• Coordinate with Front of House, Ticket Office, Train Operations, and Facilities.
• Maintain show timing, props, costumes, and inventory.
• Provide coaching and feedback to performers and assistants.

Skills

Stage management

Theatrical production

Live entertainment

Event management

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Coaching

Job description

Division/Department: Special EventsJob Title: Production Stage ManagerReports To: Special Events CoordinatorType of position: Non-Exempt, HourlyEmployee Classification: Regular Full-TimePay Range: $21-$26Location: Durango, COPosition SummaryThe Production Stage Manager is responsible for the operational leadership and execution of all theatrical performances for The Polar Express Train Ride. This position ensures that every performance is delivered safely, consistently, and in accordance with licensing and production standards. The Production Stage Manager oversees rehearsals, supervises cast members, maintains show quality, manages performance props, costumes, and event accessories, and coordinates closely with department leaders to deliver exceptional guest experience.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesLead and coordinate all cast rehearsals before and throughout the operating season.Supervise performers and Assistant Stage Managers to ensure each performance is delivered safely, consistently, and according to production and licensing standards.Conduct pre-show production meetings, cast safety briefings, and performance readiness checks.Work alongside Front of House, Ticket Office, Train Operations, Facilities, Security, and other department leaders to ensure effective communication and coordinated event operations.Complete daily production reports and communicate operational updates, concerns, and recommendations to the Special Events Coordinator.Demonstrate sound judgment and the ability to think quickly in high-pressure situations, adapting to operational delays, weather conditions, technical issues, staffing changes, and other unexpected challenges while preserving the quality of the guest experience.Monitor show quality and provide coaching, feedback, and performance direction to maintain a high-quality guest experience.Assist with recruiting, onboarding, training, and mentoring new cast members.Ensure performers follow company policies, safety procedures, licensingEnsure scenes, choreography, dialogue, character interactions, and show pacing remain consistent throughout the season.Coordinate show timing with Train Operations and other departments to ensure efficient departures and seamless guest experiences.Maintain inventory of all performance props, costumes, set pieces, and event accessories.Inspect, organize, distribute, and store production materials before and after each operating day.Coordinate replacement, repair, and maintenance of performance equipment and accessories.Anticipate operational challenges and proactively communicate solutions with leadership before they impact guests or performances.Foster a positive, professional, and collaborative work environment that promotes teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.Support special events, promotional appearances, media opportunities, and other seasonal initiatives as assigned.QualificationsPrevious experience in stage management, theatrical production, live entertainment, event management, or a related field preferred.Demonstrated leadership experience supervising teams in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.Strong coaching and leadership abilities with a commitment to developing performers and maintaining high production standards.Ability to remain calm, adaptable, and decisive under pressure.Proven problem-solving skills with the ability to make sound decisions in rapidly changing situations.Experience coordinating multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended seasonal hours.Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, lift up to 40 pounds, and work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.