Head of Props – Blue Man Group North American Tour
About the role
Blue Man Group, part of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, is seeking an experienced Head of Props to lead the Props Department for the 2026 “A New Holiday Surprise” touring production. The Head of Props is responsible for the management, maintenance, and creative execution of all props, scenic elements, and consumables used in the show, ensuring artistic standards, operational consistency, and safety protocols while collaborating with technical and creative teams on tour.
Responsibilities
- Lead the Props Department to achieve and sustain the creative and technical vision of the production.
- Oversee construction, repair, and maintenance of all props, scenic elements, and consumables in accordance with artistic and safety standards.
- Manage prop inventory, cue tracks, and documentation for touring consistency; supervise and run prop tracks, including shoe cues and post‑show resets.
- Supervise Assistant Props and ensure proper execution of running tracks, turnover duties, and post‑show tasks safely and efficiently.
- Troubleshoot and resolve prop‑related issues to minimize performance impact.
- Oversee safe use, transport, and storage of all props, complying with tour and venue safety standards.
- Collaborate with the Production Manager and other department heads to adapt prop elements to each venue while maintaining creative integrity.
- Ensure prop consumables are inventoried and restocked within established budgets and timelines.
- Supervise and schedule the Props Department, coordinating with Production Manager, Technical Direction, and Stage Management.
- Train, supervise, and mentor local prop crews at each venue to ensure proper handling and show consistency.
- Work closely with heads of Carpentry, Lighting, Video, and Wardrobe & Makeup to integrate production elements.
- Participate in daily production meetings, show notes, and post‑show debriefs; support and implement show notes from Production Stage Manager and artistic leadership.
- Oversee departmental purchasing, inventory, and budget; track expenditures, consumables, and maintenance costs; forecast restocking and replacements.
- Maintain accurate documentation, including prop cue sheets, maintenance logs, and repair reports.
- Manage vendor and supplier relationships to ensure timely delivery of materials and consumables.
- Enforce all Blue Man Group and CDSEG health and safety policies across props operations; ensure safe construction, operation, and handling of props and scenic elements.
- Promote a proactive safety culture prioritizing the well‑being of performers, crew, and local staff.
- Plan and manage all prop‑related load‑ins, setups, and load‑outs at each venue; oversee packing, labeling, and shipping for efficient transport.
- Assist with adapting prop setups to venue‑specific layouts, sightlines, and stage configurations.
- Participate in special events, press appearances, or promotional performances as required.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in Technical Theatre, Stagecraft, or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years of professional experience in prop management, scenic construction, or touring productions.
- Strong technical knowledge of materials, fabrication techniques, adhesives, pneumatics, and basic electrical systems.
- Experience with prop maintenance, troubleshooting, and cue‑track documentation.
- Skilled in budgeting, vendor management, and departmental forecasting.
- Familiarity with Blue Man Group’s performance style and prop design aesthetic is a plus.
- Ability to travel domestically for extended periods (Nov 2026 – Dec 2026) and maintain eligibility for U.S. employment and travel.
Skills
- Strong leadership and crew‑management abilities.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
- Proactive problem‑solving with attention to detail and creative resourcefulness.
- Calm, confident, and adaptable under pressure.
- Initiative, accountability, and adherence to artistic and technical standards.
- Commitment to safety, teamwork, and professionalism.
Pay
The standard pay rate for this position is $1,400 USD per week.
Benefits
This full‑time, exempt touring contract includes a competitive salary plus benefits during active tour periods.
Schedule
Tour dates: October 2026 – December 2026. Travel required domestically from November 2026 through December 2026.