After 15+ years with the company, Director of Production Derek Mack has seen Ballet BC grow, adapt, and take its work around the world. He shares what happens beyond the stage lights, from the realities of touring to the problem-solving that keeps an international dance company running smoothly.
How does the production department help a choreographer’s artistic vision?
The production department’s role in a choreographer’s creative process is one of support. Often choreographers come in with clear visions and objectives. Sometimes they come in to create, and they don’t have any plans. Those appear to be very different situations, but for the production department, they’re essentially the same. Through artistic discovery with the choreographer, the production department role is to take the elements that aren’t part of the choreography, build a plan to realize them, and how they would best fit within the overall artistic vision. These elements can range from costumes, lighting, staging, effects, audio, and video.
Generally speaking, what is your role with the company?
I work with a production team that includes wardrobe, lighting, stage management and staging technicians. We have a small team of six that are responsible for the creation and implementation of the artistic elements that support the choreographic vision. I oversee the scheduling, budgeting, resource management, procurement, staffing, logistics, and creative support.
What does collaboration mean to you in the context of Ballet BC‘s creative process?
Collaboration for me is more complex than just the creative process here at Ballet BC. I divide my energy equally between collaborating with the administration in the operations of the organization, and with the artistic team, guest artists and production staff on the creative aspects of the work. Both are integral to the success of the organization, and I see the effort on behalf of both in equal measure—one doesn’t take priority over the other.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
It’s a privilege to get to do what we do, create for a living. To share art with our audience and our community. It truly isn’t possible without support from so many different sources. Thank you for your generosity.
