Want to help create a great magic show? The stage hand position is great for someone who wants to get involved but not be completely responsible for the “make or break” of the show. 😉
Stage hands are the muscle and mechanics of the show — they make the physical world of the stage work. In a community magic show, discretion is an extra layer on top of the usual duties.
Core responsibilities:
- Moving and resetting furniture, tables, chairs, and performance surfaces between acts
- Handling props — getting them to the wings before each act, returning them after, and keeping track of what goes where
- Assisting with any large illusions that require physical setup or breakdown (cabinets, frames, platforms, etc.)
- Running cables, adjusting curtains, and managing any physical stage elements during transitions
- Keeping the wings organized and quiet during performances
Magic show specific:
- Need-to-know basis only — they should only handle props and setups relevant to their assigned tasks, and never examine or discuss what they see
- Some performers may require a specific stagehand they’ve briefed personally for sensitive setups
- Blackout changes require speed and familiarity with the layout to avoid accidents in the dark
Community show reality:
At this level, stagehands are often volunteers with varying experience, so clear pre-show briefings matter a lot. The stage manager will typically give them a written cue sheet with their specific assignments so they’re not relying on memory.
Key traits: reliability, physical capability, ability to follow instructions precisely, and the ability to keep their mouth shut about what they see backstage.