A Guide to Becoming a Professional Las Vegas Stagehand

So you want to be a professional Las Vegas stagehand? This entertainment capital of the world has numerous opportunities for the eager stagehand; however, a wide range of choices doesn't necessarily mean an easy job-hunting process. Vegas may come off as chaotic, but those in the entertainment business of this city are serious about their jobs and who they hire. Audiences expect a lot of the industry and those high up in the industry expect a lot of their employees. A proper attitude, sufficient experience, and competent skills can give you a boost up that backstage ladder.

As with any job, experience is key; it is especially important for the stagehand who must seamlessly deal with and prevent mishaps behind the scenes. Experience assures employers that you can remain calm in high-stress situations. What constitutes as experience? Stagehand work with school plays, community theatres, working with film, audio and any electrical equipment...put it ALL on your resume! Experience in small venues shows the prospective employer that you can handle a wide range of demands with little help. Having worked in large venues means that you have attained skills in one specific area and work well with others. Every job, big and small, constitutes as genuine experience in this field of work. Don't be shy; the "sin city" will only be more welcoming if you have worked non-traditional, oddball jobs.

If you are looking to specialize in one area of stagehand work, you might want to enroll in vocational or university courses. You can choose to focus on electrical engineering, carpentry, production assistance, stage management or scenic design. You can then zone-in on the music, video, cable, or theatre industry. Don't get too attached to your specialty, though. Big city employers in this business actually value experience and versatility more than they do a college diploma. Starting out means accepting the opportunities you are offered. Classroom instruction will definitely help you gain status later in your career. In the mean time, remember that experience in other realms of stagehand work can only enhance and add to your educational background.

Currently in Vegas, there are on-call opportunities. As an on-call stagehand, you must be easy to contact and ready to work in the case that someone on the main backstage crew can't perform. On-call jobs are considered to be those lowest on the totem pole, but in a big city like Vegas, it might be the only way to get your foot in the door. With this job, it is inevitable that you will make connections in the business. Show respect for those that have more experience and knowledge in the field. People need to know you exist before they can see what you can do. The rising stagehand must not only be stealthy behind the scenes but also in the midst of the social scene.

When you do get the job, look the part. Dress in all black with your materials at hand. Quick inconspicuous work relies on what and where things are in your tool belt. You should show up to the set with gloves, a flashlight, a "multitool", wrench, measuring tape, screwdriver; these are just the basics, you will also need materials specific to your assigned role back-stage. Calmness, awareness and confidence are perhaps the most important tools to show up with.

Whether you are just starting out, or are looking for a new exciting backstage environment, Vegas is your place! Where would the performers be without those stagehands? Remember, the audience is applauding for you as well. Vegas audiences and entertainment elites are always looking for open-minded stagehands who have the strength, experience, skills, tools and attitude that allows them to excel in high-demand, elaborate situations.