Television Showrunner in Missouri Career Overview

As a Television Showrunner, you are at the helm of a television production, responsible for both the creative vision and the logistical execution of a show. Your role encompasses a variety of functions that are essential for the successful production of a television series. Here are the key aspects of the job:

  • Creative Leadership: You develop the show's concept, oversee scriptwriting, and ensure that the narrative aligns with the intended vision. Your decisions shape the storytelling and overall tone of the series.

  • Production Oversight: You manage the day-to-day operations of the production, coordinating with various departments including writing, directing, and editing. Your ability to oversee multiple processes simultaneously is vital to keeping the production on track.

  • Team Management: You lead a diverse team of writers, directors, and production staff. Effective communication and collaboration are essential as you foster an environment that encourages creativity while meeting deadlines.

  • Budgeting and Scheduling: You are responsible for managing the production budget and schedules. This requires a keen understanding of resource allocation, allowing the project to stay within financial constraints while meeting its creative goals.

  • Industry Relations: Establishing and maintaining relationships with network executives, producers, and other key industry players is critical. Your ability to negotiate and advocate for your show can significantly impact its success and longevity.

  • Quality Control: You ensure that every episode meets the high standards of storytelling, production quality, and audience engagement. Your critical eye helps maintain consistency throughout the series, enhancing viewer satisfaction.

This role is integral to the television industry, as it combines artistic vision with management skills to bring captivating stories to audiences.

Television Showrunner Salary in Missouri

Annual Median: $63,600
Hourly Median: $30.58

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Television Showrunner in Missouri

To become a Television Showrunner, you typically need to pursue higher education that provides a strong foundation in various aspects of television production and storytelling. Here are specific degree programs that can help you in this career path:

  • Drama and Theatre Arts: This program focuses on the theoretical and practical elements of drama, allowing you to explore acting, stagecraft, and theatre management. It equips you with an understanding of dramatic constructs and performance, essential for developing engaging television narratives.

  • Drama and Dance Teacher Education: A degree in this field prepares you for teaching theatre and dance, while also providing insights into the performance arts. This background can enhance your ability to lead a creative team and understand character development in television scripts.

  • Creative Writing: This program delves into writing techniques across various genres, emphasizing storytelling, character development, and dialogue. It arms you with the skills needed to craft compelling scripts that resonate with audiences.

  • Film and Photographic Arts: A degree in this area covers the technical aspects of film and media production, including cinematography, editing, and visual storytelling. This knowledge is vital for overseeing the visual elements of television shows.

  • Directing and Theatrical Production: This specialized degree focuses on the processes of directing performances and managing theatrical productions. It provides insight into directing style, production design, and collaboration with actors, which are essential skills for a showrunner overseeing a television series.

Pursuing one or more of these educational paths can provide a substantial foundation for your career as a Television Showrunner.

Best Schools to become a Television Showrunner in Missouri 2024

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

New York University

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$55,384
Out-of-State Tuition:$55,384
Admission Rate:12%
Graduation Rate:87%
Total Enrollment:59,144

American Musical and Dramatic Academy

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$43,960
Out-of-State Tuition:$43,960
Admission Rate:26%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:1,480

Full Sail University

Winter Park, FL

In-State Tuition:$26,307
Out-of-State Tuition:$26,307
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:26,737

Emerson College

Boston, MA

In-State Tuition:$51,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$51,552
Admission Rate:43%
Graduation Rate:77%
Total Enrollment:5,891

University of California-Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:47%
Graduation Rate:77%
Total Enrollment:19,478
Television Showrunner Job Description:
  • Produce or direct stage, television, radio, video, or film productions for entertainment, information, or instruction.
  • Responsible for creative decisions, such as interpretation of script, choice of actors or guests, set design, sound, special effects, and choreography.

Television Showrunner Required Skills and Competencies in Missouri

  • Leadership and Team Management: You must effectively lead a diverse team of writers, directors, and producers, ensuring collaboration and encouraging creativity while maintaining clear lines of communication.

  • Creative Vision: You should possess a strong ability to conceptualize engaging storylines, character arcs, and themes that resonate with audiences while staying true to the intended tone and genre of the show.

  • Writing Proficiency: You need excellent writing skills, not only in scriptwriting but also in creating compelling narratives, dialogue, and character development.

  • Project Management: It’s essential to manage multiple tasks, timelines, and production schedules efficiently, ensuring that the project stays on track and within budget.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You must be adept at addressing unexpected challenges that arise during production, finding innovative solutions while keeping the project moving forward.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary to articulate ideas clearly and facilitate effective dialogue among team members, stakeholders, and networks.

  • Negotiation Skills: You should be comfortable negotiating contracts, budgets, and creative decisions with various parties, including studios, networks, and talent.

  • Industry Knowledge: Staying informed about current trends, audience preferences, and technological advancements in television production is key to developing relevant and compelling content.

  • Adaptability: You need to be flexible and open to feedback, capable of adjusting your ideas and strategies based on input from executives, writers, and other collaborators.

  • Time Management: The ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively is critical in meeting deadlines and ensuring smooth production flow.

Job Duties for Television Showrunners

  • Communicate to actors the approach, characterization, and movement needed for each scene in such a way that rehearsals and takes are minimized.

  • Direct live broadcasts, films and recordings, or non-broadcast programming for public entertainment or education.

  • Plan details such as framing, composition, camera movement, sound, and actor movement for each shot or scene.

Technologies and Skills Used by Television Showrunners

Music or sound editing software

  • Adobe Audition
  • Magix Vegas Pro

Video creation and editing software

  • TikTok
  • YouTube

Web page creation and editing software

  • Instagram
  • WordPress

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Television Showrunner in Missouri

The job market for Television Showrunners in Missouri presents unique opportunities as the entertainment industry continues to evolve. Here are the key points to consider regarding demand, growth potential, and geographical hotspots:

  • Growing Demand: The demand for original content is on the rise due to the expansion of streaming services and cable networks. This has created an increased need for experienced showrunners who can oversee the creative and logistical aspects of television production.

  • Emerging Markets: While traditional media hubs like Los Angeles and New York still dominate, Missouri has been positioning itself as an emerging market for television production. Tax incentives for filmmakers and growing interest in producing original series and films in the Midwest have spurred local production activities.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • St. Louis: As one of Missouri's largest cities, St. Louis has a burgeoning film and television scene. The area hosts various production companies and studios that frequently engage local talent.
    • Kansas City: Known for its artistic vibe and strong community support for the arts, Kansas City is home to several independent production houses and media organizations, which can provide valuable opportunities for showrunners.
    • Columbia: With the presence of the University of Missouri and a growing number of creative projects being developed in the area, Columbia offers a dynamic environment for aspiring showrunners, along with access to emerging talent.
  • Industry Collaborations: Partnerships between educational institutions and production companies have been increasing, leading to internships and job placements for those entering the field. These collaborations often provide a direct pathway to employment.

  • Diverse Content Creation: As audiences seek diverse stories from various cultural perspectives, there is a growing opportunity for showrunners in Missouri to carve out niches in genres that may not be well represented in mainstream media. This trend allows for personal storytelling and innovation, which can be appealing to potential networks.

  • Film Festivals and Networking: Missouri hosts various film festivals and industry events that serve as networking opportunities for showrunners. Participation in events such as the St. Louis International Film Festival can lead to valuable connections within the industry.

Overall, while Missouri may not be the first state that comes to mind for television production, the landscape is changing, and the opportunities for showrunners are expanding within its urban centers.

Top Related Careers to Television Showrunner 2024

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Television Showrunner in Missouri

  • Writers Guild of America (WGA)

    • Website: www.wga.org
    • Description: The WGA provides resources, networking opportunities, and guidance on industry standards and contracts for writers, including those aspiring to become showrunners.
  • Producers Guild of America (PGA)

    • Website: www.producersguild.org
    • Description: This organization supports producers in film, television, and new media, offering resources on best practices, networking, and professional development.
  • National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE)

    • Website: www.natpe.com
    • Description: NATPE provides various resources including market trends, educational programs, and industry networking events for television professionals.
  • American Film Institute (AFI)

    • Website: www.afi.com
    • Description: AFI offers educational programs and resources for aspiring filmmakers and television creatives, including workshops related to writing and production.
  • ScreenCraft

    • Website: www.screencraft.org
    • Description: An organization dedicated to screenwriting and television writing, ScreenCraft provides contests, writing resources, and advice on becoming a successful writer.
  • TV Writers Vault

    • Website: www.tvwritersvault.com
    • Description: This platform connects writers with industry professionals and networks, providing opportunities for script submissions and feedback.
  • Stage 32

    • Website: www.stage32.com
    • Description: Stage 32 is an online community for film and television creatives, offering networking opportunities, educational courses, and resources for aspiring showrunners.
  • The Hollywood Reporter

    • Website: www.hollywoodreporter.com
    • Description: A leading industry publication that covers television, film, and entertainment news, providing insights into trends and career opportunities.
  • Variety

    • Website: www.variety.com
    • Description: Another key publication that offers news on the entertainment industry, including information on television shows, producers, writers, and market trends.
  • LinkedIn Learning

    • Website: www.linkedin.com/learning
    • Description: This platform offers various online courses related to television production, writing, and project management, which can be beneficial for aspiring showrunners.
  • Coursera

    • Website: www.coursera.org
    • Description: Coursera partners with universities and organizations to provide online courses, including those focused on storytelling, screenwriting, and production.
  • Film Independent

    • Website: www.filmindependent.org
    • Description: This nonprofit organization offers resources for independent filmmakers, including educational opportunities and networking events relevant to television.
  • Local Missouri Film Commissions

    • Website: Missouri Film Office
    • Description: Provides information about filming in Missouri, resources for filmmakers, and industry news relevant to local professionals.

Utilizing these resources can enhance your knowledge of the television industry, help build your network, and provide ongoing education as you work towards a career as a showrunner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Television Showrunner in Missouri

  • What is a television showrunner?
    A television showrunner is responsible for the overall creative and operational aspects of a television series. This role includes scripting, managing the writing team, overseeing production, and ensuring that the vision of the show is realized through the various stages of development and airing.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a showrunner?
    While there is no specific degree required, a background in film, television production, or writing can be beneficial. Many showrunners start as writers or producers and gain experience through various roles in the industry.

  • How can I break into the industry?
    Networking is vital in the television industry. Consider internships at production companies, participate in writers' workshops, and attend industry events. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to opportunities.

  • What skills are essential for a showrunner?
    Key skills include strong leadership, creativity, excellent communication, organization, and the ability to manage budgets and schedules. A deep understanding of storytelling and character development is also critical.

  • Is experience in writing necessary to be a showrunner?
    Yes, experience in writing is often essential. Showrunners typically have a strong background in scriptwriting and storytelling to effectively lead the creative direction of a series.

  • What type of salary can I expect as a showrunner in Missouri?
    Salaries for showrunners can vary widely based on factors like experience, the network or platform, and the project's budget. In Missouri, you might expect a salary range from approximately $60,000 to over $200,000 annually.

  • How do showrunners collaborate with others in the industry?
    Showrunners work closely with writers, directors, producers, and network executives. They must communicate their vision clearly, lead the writing process, provide feedback during production, and make adjustments based on audience and network feedback.

  • What are the typical hours for a showrunner?
    Showrunners often work long hours, particularly during the writing and production phases of a show. Workweeks can extend beyond 40 hours, especially when deadlines are approaching or during the airing of episodes.

  • What challenges do showrunners face?
    Showrunners often face significant pressure to deliver quality content on tight schedules and budgets. Balancing creative control with network demands and audience expectations can also be a challenging aspect of the role.

  • Are there any resources available for aspiring showrunners?
    Yes, there are various resources including books, online courses, and workshops that focus on screenwriting, production, and showrunning. Organizations like the Writers Guild of America also offer valuable insights and networking opportunities.