1Production Management

1 Production Management

The productions that most successfully implement new ways of sustainable working have two fundamental things in common: the environment is on par with artistic and financial considerations, and everyone involved in the production is engaged and invested in the goal of sustainability from the outset. The stronger the commitment across the team –from the director to the technical crew –the greater the willingness to experiment, take risks and try new products and ways of working will be.

Re-framing Sustainability

It goes without saying that creative professionals strive for excellence in their work. Because it is often perceived as a costly luxury that requires budget and resources when both are in short supply, sustainability may at times feel like a restriction to putting on a great performance. However, it’s important to realise that environmental principles can be viewed in the same way as budgetary or staging requirements: they are necessary parts of putting on a successful production. While some aspects of sustainable best practice can cost more, others can generate up to thousands of pounds worth of savings, and potentially salaries for more creative and crew staff, depending on the scale of the production. The challenge lies in collectively embracing sustainability as a non-negotiable element of the production process. Not an extra or add-on, but a starting point. Set designer Soutra Gilmour discussed this issue at Green My Production, a Julie’s Bicycle event on sustainable production held at White Light in March 2013. Ultimately, she says, “You’re always imperfect – that is for sure. It’s a constant picking oneself up on the things you are and aren’t doing – and celebrating the successes.” You can watch a video summarising the event here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vDZR4SM_L4

Strong leadership is crucial to establish a vision and practical framework for sustainable production that is achievable and relevant to the production. The following chapter will outline the specific steps and responsibilities which can be taken on by the four different leadership roles found in productions: artistic directors, producers, directors, and production managers. While each role may have a different focus, we believe it is essential for individuals working in each category to familiarise themselves with this guide in its entirety, in order to gain a deeper understanding of what each production department can contribute and how to work collaboratively.

Key

Starting Points

Basic practices to start embedding environmental sustainability into your decision-making.

Industry Good Practice

Pushing it a bit further; impact reducing initiatives that will raise you just above the norm.

Leading Ideas

Stuff to shout about; the ideas and practices that are beginning to fundamentally change the way we make theatre.

Case study

Sydney Theatre Company: Greening the Wharf

The STC’s sustainability programme, Greening the Wharf, has enabled them to explore and implement best practice for environmentally sound production, and research everything from the latest LED lighting technology to sustainably sourced timber available to Australian theatre companies. They have developed a comprehensive Green Production Policy, which can be seen along with other resources documenting their learning online: www.greeningthewharf.com/projects/the atre-production