Stage Manager

Introduction to Theatre Drama 1304,

The stage manager is perhaps the most important enabler in a production.  He or she is central to the entire process from auditions to the closing night.  Much of the success of the entire project rests in the hands of the members of this important department.  You have been selected as the production stage manager because you have demonstrated the responsibility and leadership it will take to complete this task.  It is essential that you understand the importance of this position and accept the challenge.

The stage managers should make arrangements to meet with me immediately so that we might discuss the scope of the project and its organizational requirements.  I have plenty of literature and stage manager forms to share with you.  The library has a significant body of work on the topic.  Our department is blessed with several experienced stage managers.  Together, we can get you started and underway. (If you have been assigned as an assistant stage manager, please meet with your stage manager immediately. He or she will have information for you.)

Every production needs one individual to coordinate all the activities of the director, the cast and the production staff. Getting the play to the stage and opening night is a step-by-step process which the stage management staff.  Of course, since this is a class, we will not expect you to possess all the skills necessary nor to anticipate what might be your next step.  My position is to provide you with guidance and when necessary to assist you in your duties.

REMEMBER THIS... this is only a play.  It is a class activity.  The majority of those involved do not understand theatre protocol.  There will be varying degrees of commitment to the project.  Some people will let you down.  It is only a play.  It is no different from any other group activity.  You are the person in charge to make certain everyone stays on task.  HOWEVER, this does not mean you are authorized to threaten or force or beat or ... If there are those who chose not to participate, bring it to my attention so that I might assistant.  You are a peer in this class.  Sometimes you will encounter those who will not care to accept the position you are to perform.  It is only a play.

PLEASE REMEMBER...  people respond with enthusiasm to those who LEAD through RESPECT and not to leaders of force.

In general, so that you might anticipate your commitment, a stage manager assists in the facilitation of rehearsals. This includes taking notes for the director, recording blocking (movement on stage), moving furniture when necessary and basically being the "right-hand person". Every rehearsal will have present either the production stage manager or an assistant stage manager. This aspect of the project will be factored into your 6 hour per week commitment. Usually, if you are called to rehearsal as an actor, at times you will also wear the hat of the stage management department.

An important aspect of the stage management function in a production is to keep a PROMPT BOOK. This is the official "bible" for the show. It includes the script, prop lists, costume lists, scenery shift plans, sound cues, lighting cues, special effect cues, check lists, attendance, rehearsal reports, to name only a few. Therefore, the Prompt Book needs to be present at each rehearsal so that notes and alterations might be made. The STAGE MANAGER for each show is in charge of the Prompt Book. ASMs will need to coordinate the recording progress of this document with the SM.

Based on the 6 hour limit of outside rehearsal or activities for our show per week, you will be assigned to attend specific rehearsals on a weekly bases. It will be your duty to show up for this rehearsal ahead of time to set up the space and prepare for the rehearsal.  Our director will become a close friend throughout the process.  This will be a very rewarding endeavor.

As always, if you have questions, you are to contact me.