A stagehand is a person who works backstage or behind the scenes in theatres, film, television, or location performance.
Their work includes setting up the scenery, lights, sound, props, rigging, and special effects for a production.
Most stagehands have a general knowledge of all the phases of a production, but tend to develop specialties and focus on specific areas.
Stagehands are generally employed on a show-by-show basis, although most major theaters and studios maintain staff heads of departments and assistants.
Skilled stagehands know how to work in a wide range of theaters and other venues to support successful shows.
Stagehands in the United States and Canada are represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.