régisseur

A régisseur is a theatre, opera, or dance professional responsible for the practical running of a production. The régisseur coordinates rehearsals and performances, calls cues for lighting, sound, and scenery, and supervises the backstage crew. They ensure that sets, props, costumes, and technical systems are ready, manage scene changes, and keep the show on schedule. They maintain the show bible, run sheets, and safety procedures, and act as the liaison between the director, designers, performers, and technicians. During performances, the régisseur directs the run of the show from backstage or a control area, manages timing and pacing, and handles emergencies or last‑minute adjustments. In larger houses, there may be a régisseur général who oversees the entire backstage operation, with assistants for areas such as lighting, sound, or props.

The term is also used in francophone film, television, and event production to denote a production or operations manager responsible for on‑set coordination, scheduling, and logistics, ensuring that shoots or events proceed smoothly. In this context, the régisseur collaborates with directors, producers, and department heads to translate artistic intent into practical execution and to maintain safety and efficiency on set or location.

Etymology and scope: the word derives from régie, meaning management or administration, and the position sits at the intersection of artistic direction and technical execution. The role is central to bridging performers, designers, and technicians, ensuring that a production’s creative vision is realized in performance.

Qualifications: régisseurs typically come from theatre, dance, or film training and possess strong organizational and communication skills, the ability to multitask under pressure, knowledge of stagecraft and safety regulations, and the capacity to lead diverse teams of technicians, performers, and volunteers.