Stage Manager
What does a Stage Manager do?
What does a Stage Manager do?
The STAGE MANAGER (frequently referred to as SM), works on a production from the start of rehearsals through the last performance and coordinates schedules and information for the creative team. The SM assists the DIRECTOR during rehearsals, notates blocking, and is responsible for all backstage activity once the show opens. STAGE MANAGERS “call” the show – which can include coordinating deck cues with the LIGHTING OPERATORS, SOUND OPERATORS, CONDUCTORS, and ACTORS, while maintaining communication for all facets of the production during performances. Depending on the size and needs of a production, there may be various categories of stage management, such as PRODUCTION STAGE MANAGER, STAGE MANAGER, and ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGER.
Skills
Organization | Communication | Leadership | Problem-Solving | Attention to Detail | Multi-Tasking | Patience | Caretaking
Pathways
Assistant Stage Management | Assistant Directing | Production Assistant | Fellowships | Apprenticeships | Volunteering | Internships | Degree in stage management, theatre management, and/or production
How to become a Stage Manager
How to become a Stage Manager
Many colleges and universities offer degrees and concentrations in stage management, as well as opportunities stage managing student-led productions. Many theatres offer fellowships, apprenticeships, or professional training as stage managers, too. Broadway stage managers often begin as assistant stage managers and are hired anywhere from the start of casting to the last performance. Those just starting out may want to explore experiences working with student-directors or as assistant stage managers.
Union/Professional Organization Affiliations
Resources
- Broadway World’s Stage Manager Career Spotlight: Matt DiCarlo
- Playbill’s Theatre Jobs: What Does It Take to Be a Broadway Stage Manager
- AACT’s The Stage Manager’s Job
- Broadway Stage Management Symposium
- Broadway Beyond Access
- Broadway World’s Stage Manager Stories: Lisa Iacucci, Shelley Miles, & Clarissa Marie Ligon
Spotlight on Broadway’s Ira Mont Stage Manager
ShowbizU: Stage Manager- Arturo Porazzi & Tim Kashani
Growella's Coolest Jobs in America- Amber White
"Behind the Curtain" Beverly Jenkins, Stage Manager for Hadestown