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Backstage Acting Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Backstage Acting information

See Colorado salary details

$5

$24

$77

How much do backstage acting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for backstage acting in Colorado is $24.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.03 and $26.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is backstage acting?

A Backstage Acting job typically refers to roles and opportunities found through Backstage, a platform that connects actors with casting directors for theater, film, TV, and commercial work. These jobs can range from major productions to independent projects, covering auditions for lead roles, supporting characters, and background work. Actors use Backstage to find casting calls, submit auditions, and network within the industry to build their careers.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges of backstage acting during a live production?

Backstage acting professionals are responsible for performing supporting roles that may involve quick costume changes, operating props, or executing non-speaking parts visible to the audience, all while ensuring they follow the director’s cues precisely. A key challenge in this role is maintaining focus and flexibility during fast-paced, high-pressure situations, as live performances often require adapting to unexpected changes or technical issues. Teamwork and effective communication with other backstage crew members and performers are essential to execute seamless transitions. These experiences can help performers build a strong foundation in theater and open pathways to more prominent acting or production roles over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for backstage acting?

To thrive in backstage acting roles, you need a solid foundation in theater production processes, stage movement, and sometimes ensemble performance, typically backed by relevant experience or training in performing arts. Familiarity with basic stage equipment, props, cues, and communication systems like intercoms is often necessary. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to follow direction meticulously set candidates apart in these roles. These skills are crucial because backstage acting demands seamless coordination, precise timing, and flexibility to ensure smooth live performances and support the overall success of a production.

Can you do backstage acting with no experience?

Backstage acting typically requires some understanding of theater production and may involve assisting with set, props, or stage management. While prior experience is not always necessary, gaining relevant skills through training or volunteering can improve chances of getting involved in backstage roles. Many entry-level opportunities are available for those willing to learn and observe the production process.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backstage Acting jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Backstage Acting jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Backstage Acting jobs in Colorado?

For Backstage Acting jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Backstage Acting job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,531 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Production Shop Crew Member

Colorado Mesa University

Grand Junction, CO • On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Colorado Mesa University rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

FLSA Status:
United States of America (Non-Exempt)
SECTION I - OUR VALUES CULTIVATE OUR VISION AND CULTURE
At CMU, we believe in acting from a foundation of goodwill. This belief gives us the courage to form meaningful relationships, embark on joint endeavors and take risks in the pursuit of new possibilities. It's this courage that enables the Mavily to explore new ways of thinking and doing, knowing that there is no perfect solution, no perfect idea.
From this place of humility and courage, we've built a culture of resilience. We invest in the future by continuously adapting to change, overcoming challenges, and seizing new opportunities. We recognize that change is constant, and our resilience allows us to embrace it with confidence. Endless curiosity drives us to approach the unexpected as if it were expected, seeing opportunities for discovery and renewal in every challenge. In this community rooted in love and dignity, curiosity thrives, leading to endless opportunities for growth and advancement.
Inspired by the soul of the West-the spirit that our region embodies-we emerge as a force for positive change, harnessing our collective power to build a Human Scale University that reflects our values and brings to life our shared vision of the world we aspire to create.
Colorado Mesa University Core Values
Love - Extending oneself for nurturing the growth of self and others
Dignity - Respecting the intrinsic value of each person and believing that others act from a foundation of goodwill
Courage - Taking risks in the pursuit of new possibilities
Humility - Suspending one's ego and pride to recognize that no idea is perfect and being open to the input of others
Resiliency - Investing in the future by adapting to changes, overcoming challenges and pursuing Opportunity
Curiosity - Cultivating awe and exploring the unknown
Power - The strength to act collaboratively with individual agency to achieve our goals
JOB DESCRIPTION
About the Role:
- Are you looking for a fun, hands-on job on campus? Join the backstage theater crew! You will help build the worlds you see on stage. We will teach you everything you need to know. You do not need to know how to use shop tools or build things to apply.
What You Will Do:
- You will help with different backstage tasks depending on what the theater needs each week.
- Building & Set Moving: Cut wood and screw stage pieces together using basic power tools.Help carry and lift heavy set pieces (up to 50 pounds) onto the stage.Take apart and clean up the stage after a show finishes its run.
- Painting & Props: Paint large walls and floors using rollers and paintbrushes.Mix colors and add basic textures to make wood look like brick or stone.Help build or find small items that actors hold on stage.
- Stage Lighting: Hang lighting instruments onto pipes above the stage. Basic electrical work and possible safety harnessed work from up high (+25ft.)
- Sound & other management: Tape down cables and mats on the floor. Lots of cleaning and organizing. All of these jobs deal with paint, dust, and other materials that can get on your clothes and hair. Gloves and eye protection are provided, but work clothes are highly recommended!
Job Requirements:
- You must be a currently enrolled CMU student with Workstudy or MavWorks. You must be willing to learn and work well with a team.You must be able to stand for a few hours and lift up to 50 pounds.You must wear closed-toe shoes (like sneakers or boots) for safety. No earbuds are allowed - you must be able to hear at all times for everyone's safety!
Days & Hours:
- We meet every weekday from 2-5pm in either the Asteria Scene Shop or the Moss Performing Arts Center Scene Shop. Occasionally we will have Saturday or Sunday calls or late night show strikes, but these are optional.
- 20 hours/week max.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
DISCLAIMER - This position description is only a summary of the typical functions of this seat, and not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and areas of accountability.
HOW TO APPLY: Applicants will be asked to complete an online application by creating a profile and then providing personal and demographic information. In addition, please be prepared to upload a:
  • Cover letter (Optional)
  • Resume

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