Event Magic: The Production Box

Being an Event Manager is a bit like being like a teacher, a mom and a nurse all rolled into one. (Not to mention a magician, hence Event Magic: The Production Box.) When you’re on a job you need to be prepared for anything. Our number one answer to problem solving is to always have a fully stocked box of tricks and we call this a Production Box. (We also have a Stationery Box but we’ll get to that another time.)

The Production Box has everything from pens and paper clips to a mallet. Also, double-sided tape – love it and it's saved many a performer from an on-stage wardrobe malfunction.  And cable ties, mmm, you know you’re meant to be an Event Manager if cable ties get you excited.

We’re sharing our Production Box list with you – so you can go forth and make event magic for yourself. PS The scissors are always the first to go. You can never find them.

During your pre-production check, include your Production Box list with your Production Document, so you can replenish where necessary.

Kelly McGillivray, Squad Leader

• Batteries (assorted sizes)
• Bags (carrier, bin, sandwich and sick bags)
• Cable ties
• Calculator
• Clipboard
• Disposable table cloths
• Disposable razor
• Elastic bands
• Extension cord
• Hammer
• Insect repellent
• Strip plug
• Pens and pencils (also highlighter pens)
• Post it notes
• Polish and duster
• Matches and lighters
• Markers (thick, black markers)
• Measuring tape
• Multi plug socket adapter
• Music CDs (compilations)
• Nails and screws (assorted)
• Napkins
• Notepads (A5 for notes and plain A4 for signs)
• Paper clips
• screwdriver
• Picture hanging wire
• Pins
• Pushpins/tacks
• Safety clips
• Scissors
• Stapler and staples
• White sticky labels
• Stopwatch
• String
• Sun protection lotion
• Superglue
• Tape (carpet, clear, scotch, masking, electrical and duct tapes)
• Envelopes
• Printing paper
• Torch
• Window cleaner
• Wire cutters
• Umbrella
• USB stick (conferences)

First aid kit

• Pain killers (Aspirin/Ibuprofen/Paracetamol/[and for the ultimate hangover cure] Resolve)
• Bandages
• Dressings
• Plasters & tape
• Instant cold pack
• Gloves
• Gauze
• Cotton wool
• Alcohol swabs
• Dettol antiseptic.

Contact: Kelly McGillivray

Email: Kelly@thesquad.co.za