<P> The producer handles the business and legal end of employing staff, as in any business entity . Hiring creative staff and teams generally involves the director and playwright's approval . The producer hires the production team, including the general manager, production manager, house manager, stage manager, etc., at their discretion . In many cases, contracts require that the producer use front of house staff (such as the house manager, box office, ushers, etc .) and backstage personnel (stage hands, electrician, carpenter, etc .) supplied by the theatre . </P> <P> The producer creates, builds on and oversees the budget, sets ticket prices, chooses performance dates and times, and develops a marketing and advertising strategy for the production . Hiring a publicist and marketing team is one of the most important responsibilities of the producer . These teams are generally in place before the show is cast . </P> <P> The producer collaborates with the director and all staff to plan a production timeline and deadlines for various aspects of the production to ensure a successful show opening and run . The producer and director oversee this timeline, with periodic re-assessment and modifications as needed . </P> <P> The producer hires accountants, and perhaps already has legal representation . This is important, because of the liability issues mentioned above . All bills, including payroll, must be paid on time, and taxes must be paid . The producer oversees the budget . The theatre owner provides box office services and turns over net ticket sales revenue . If sales fall under a set minimum level, the unprofitable show may close . If ticket sales are good and the show makes a profit, the producer may get 50% of the net profit, the other 50% going to the investors . Statistically, highly successful shows with big profits are the exception . Independent commercial production is a high risk business . </P>

What does an executive producer do in theatre