How much does a Prompter make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Prompter

Prompter

39 300 kr

Stage managers and script supervisors etc.

38 500 - 39 300 kr / month

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Prompter

Average salary 39 300 kr
Males 0 kr
Females 38 800 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 9 Vacant jobs ->

What does a prompt book operator do? – Tasks and work environment

A prompt book operator assists actors and performers during theater performances, opera productions, and other stage shows by discreetly reminding them of lines or lyrics. The tasks include following the script carefully, being attentive to the development of the scene, and quickly intervening when needed without disturbing the audience or the flow of the performance. The prompt book operator often works closely with the director, actors, and technical staff and is usually located in a dedicated prompt box at the stage edge or nearby the stage. The work environment can be intense and requires both concentration and flexibility, especially during live performances where the pace and pressure are high.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary of prompt book operators has shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK per month, which increased to 36 200 SEK in 2023. The latest figure from 2024 shows a further increase to 39 300 SEK, corresponding to a total salary increase of approximately 15% over the period. This development can be explained by increased demand for qualified stage personnel and general salary adjustments within the cultural sector. At the same time, the job market for stage art and production has become more competitive, which may lead to more experienced prompt book operators being valued higher by employers.

Prompt book operator salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 39 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest/Highest salary: Exact range data is unavailable
  • Hourly wage: 236 SEK/hour
  • Gender differences: Women earn 38 800 SEK/month, data on men is unavailable
  • Regional differences: Specific data is unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a prompt book operator is rarely strictly regulated, but the profession requires solid knowledge of theater and performing arts, as well as strong language and communication skills. Many prompt book operators have experience from theater activities or education in drama, stage technology, or similar fields. Practical experience is highly valued, and opportunities for internships or trainee positions exist at larger theaters and opera houses.

  • Formal education: High school education with a focus on performing arts is recommended
  • Internships: Experience from theater production or stage work is highly meritorious
  • Courses: Courses in drama, scriptwriting, and directing can be advantageous
  • Prerequisites: Good reading ability and concentration are required
  • Self-study: Opportunities for self-study in theater history and script analysis

Working as a prompt book operator often means being the invisible hero of the stage. It requires a great sense of touch and the ability to quickly read the needs of actors and the rhythm of the scene. Many prompt book operators report a special satisfaction in contributing to a successful performance without being in the spotlight.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Prompt book operators are often covered by collective agreements that may include compensation for unsociable hours, supplements for weekend work, and sometimes wellness allowances. In some cases, staff tickets to performances and opportunities for further training in theater and performing arts are also offered.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a prompt book operator is intense, as the number of permanent positions is limited and many theaters offer temporary assignments instead of permanent employment. A challenge is that the role often requires flexibility and readiness for irregular working hours, especially during premieres and major productions. Additionally, a high work ethic and the ability to handle stressful situations are necessary, as a single mistake can affect the entire performance. Another aspect is that technological innovations and digitalization are gradually changing work methods, which can impose new requirements for skills development in the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a prompt book operator

To succeed as a prompt book operator, it is good to combine accuracy with a responsive and collaborative attitude. Gaining experience by engaging in amateur theater and volunteering provides valuable insights into stage dynamics and trains the ability to act discreetly. Good organizational skills are crucial for managing scripts and quickly navigating between different scenes, while patience helps during rehearsals and long performances. Communication is central, both for understanding the director's intentions and for building trust with actors. Finally, a genuine interest in theater and performing arts helps stay motivated and up-to-date with new working methods.

Key facts about prompt book operators

  • Average salary: 39 300 SEK/month
  • Average salary for women: 38 800 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage: 236 SEK/hour
  • Demand: Approximately 620 available jobs in the profession
  • Educational level: High school diploma and stage experience recommended

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, prompt book operators can advance to roles such as stage manager, assistant director, or other functions within stage production. Some choose to further their education and work in script development or directing. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, it is difficult to give an exact assessment of future prospects for prompt book operators, as the profession is a smaller part of a broader occupational group. However, there are indications that there are around 620 available jobs in the profession, suggesting some demand. Developments in digital technology and new stage formats may also open up broader employment opportunities in the future.

Frequently asked questions about prompt book operators

  • What is the average salary of a prompt book operator?
    - A prompt book operator has an average salary of 39 300 SEK per month.
  • What is the salary for women working as a prompt book operator?
    - Women working as prompt book operators have an average salary of 38 800 SEK per month.
  • What education is required to become a prompt book operator?
    - Formal education is not always a requirement, but experience in theater and courses in performing arts are recommended.
  • What is the job market like for prompt book operators?
    - There are about 620 available jobs in the profession, but the number of dedicated prompt book positions is limited.
  • Are there regional salary differences?
    - Specific regional salary differences for prompt book operators are not available in the statistics.
  • What qualities are important for a prompt book operator?
    - Accuracy, concentration, and good teamwork skills are essential.
  • What career paths are available after a few years as a prompt book operator?
    - Opportunities include advancement to stage manager, assistant director, or work in script development.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-08 05:20:15

Occupation
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
55-64 41100 kr 41800 kr
Snitt 38500 kr 39300 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Prompter has the SSYK code 3433, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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