What Do They Actually Do on a Tour?
If you’ve ever been around a live music production team, chances are you’ve heard the terms “Prod Manager” or “Stage Manager” thrown around.
But what do they actually mean — and what’s the difference?
Whether you’re new to the live industry, working with Japanese artists, or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this post is for you.
🧭 What is Production Management?
The Production Manager (PM) is the person who oversees the entire technical and logistical set-up of a live show — from pre-planning to wrap-up.
They’re the ones connecting the dots between the artist’s creative vision and the reality of each venue.
🔧 Key responsibilities:
- Coordinating sound, lighting, video, lasers, special effects
- Checking venue specs and creating technical plans
- Arranging gear and rentals across tour stops
- Managing local crew and daily call times
- Creating the full day-to-day production schedule
- Liaising with artist management and creative teams
- Making on-site decisions when things (inevitably) change
👉 Think of them as the chief architect and project manager of the entire show.
🎤 What is Stage Management?
The Stage Manager is the person who runs the stage during the show day — from rehearsal to curtain call.
They’re in charge of keeping everyone on cue and everything running on time.
🎯 Key responsibilities:
- Overseeing rehearsals and sound checks
- Coordinating artist changeovers and timings
- Directing backline and crew movements
- Ensuring stage safety (cables, gear placement, walkways)
- Communicating live cues and keeping the show flowing
👉 They’re the floor traffic controller for the entire performance space.
🔄 What’s the difference?
| Production Manager | Stage Manager | |
| Focus | Full show planning and logistics | Stage operations on the day of the show |
| Scope | Entire production team and technical suppliers | On-stage artists, crew and transitions |
| Timing | From pre-production to load-out | Mostly on show day |
| Goal | Deliver the full event as planned | Run the stage smoothly and on time |
🧑💼 Tripleguns: Bridging Cultures On Stage
When working internationally — especially between Japan and overseas — these roles are even more essential.
At Tripleguns, we don’t just handle logistics. We also act as “translators” between cultures, systems, and expectations.
That means:
- Explaining Japanese creative requests to local crews
- Adapting venue capabilities into workable plans
- Supporting artists who are unfamiliar with overseas workflows
- Keeping everything running with calm, steady leadership