Learning the Ropes Before Running the Show

A thoroughly educated production manager is always going to be better at running the show than someone who’s brand new. And the best education comes from learning the basics as a new hire, then learning more and more as you work your way up. Asked of a particular job that “really set you on your course in your career,” Production Manager Denny Rich cites “being a head carp for Opie [Dale Skjerseth] and Jake [Berry]” on tours for the Rolling Stones and AC/DC and also working with Chris Kansy on ‘Roger Waters: The Wall.’ “You are not just focused on your one aspect of what you do,” Rich told PLSN. “I think having been on the floor and building stages; facilitating in all the other departments, getting what they need and all that, I think it gives you a very balanced view of where everyone’s needs lie. That experience gave me the understanding of a production that I then took and built on right up to today.”