What is a PA?

Production Assistant.

On film shoots it usually means gopher.

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Thanks Jane2, do you know if their job differs at all in live theatre?

Yes, really, MN. basically they provide assistance to anyone on the production team, in whatever help they need. It's the first step in moving up the ladder in the industry.

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Updated On: 3/3/15 at 09:52 AM

Yes, typically a PA (Production Assistant) is in the the stage management department (although there are at times Music Department PA's, Scenic PA's, etc.) .

In stage management, they are a non-union position.

On Broadway, the PA position is often held by someone who has their union card in hopes of being moved up in the AEA Contract position either as Sub or replacement.

Most enjoyable job I ever had in the theater: lots of drama and interesting tasks; admission to the various cast parties and the opportunity to meet fascinating people; and relatively little pressure.

Yes, it could be hectic in the day before tech, but if, say, I got to a shop and discovered they didn't have the promised prop, I simply had to call the designer and say, "What do I do now?"

Great experience for anyone interested in a production career in the theater.

Updated On: 3/3/15 at 09:55 PM