Hyderabad women spotlight production managers in theatre

In Hyderabad, an all-women theatre group is gearing up for World Theatre Day on March 27. The group, based at Rangbhoomi Spaces, is celebrating the important yet often unnoticed role of production managers in theatre. They emphasize their dedication and love for the craft amid rehearsals and performances leading up to the event. Production managers play a crucial role similar to project managers. They oversee everything from set construction to coordinating schedules, managing backstage operations, and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Preksha Trivedi, a seasoned production manager, describes their role as vital but often thankless. She notes that while audiences focus on the actors, production managers work tirelessly behind the scenes. Chandni Agarwal, another production manager, highlights the challenge of gaining recognition. Even when overseeing significant productions, it is often the actors who receive the spotlight. Despite this, many production managers find satisfaction in their work, even if their names go unrecognized. The group also shares their varied experiences and the unique skills they bring to the role. Pallavi Verma and Harika Vedula emphasize that women excel in these positions because of their organizational skills and awareness of team needs. They believe this contributes to a more comfortable environment for all artists involved. Veteran actor-director Nasreen Ishaque adds that collaboration and teamwork are essential in making theatrical productions successful. The women stress the importance of solidarity within the theatre community, particularly as more women take on production roles in Hyderabad. As the women celebrate their contributions to the arts, they represent a shift in the theatre landscape, reflecting the growing recognition of production managers as key players in the industry.