Stage Management
stage management
A theatre stage manager organises and co-ordinates rehearsals and performances, liaising with the director, technical staff and other members of stage management personnel.
The stage manager is usually supported by a deputy stage manager and assistant stage manager, but in small companies and touring theatres, the stage manager may handle all areas of the production.
The stage management team organises the production environment. They ensure the availability of rehearsal space, co-ordinate rehearsals, supervise access to the venue, ensure a safe working environment, and arrange provision and maintenance of props and equipment.
The work also involves recording details of the production and disseminating information to colleagues.
» Typical work activities
Typical activities vary according to the role (stage manager, deputy stage manager and assistant stage manager) but in all roles responsibilities revolve around bridging the gap between the artistic and technical aspects of a production. The stage management team is responsible for:
•setting up and running rehearsal schedules;
•procuring all props, furniture and set dressings (in small companies, the team may also assist in set construction);
•arranging costume and wig fittings;
•distributing information to other theatre departments;
•managing the props, and possibly the design, budgets and liaising with the production manager regarding costings;
•supervising the 'get in' to the theatre, when the set, lighting and sound are installed, and the 'get out', when all the equipment is removed;
•compiling and operating prompt copy - also known as the 'prompt script', or 'the book' - noting actors' moves, changes to the set between scene changes, prompting actors and cueing technicians;
•ensuring the company's welfare and maintaining a good working knowledge of all relevant health and safety legislation and good working practice;
•running the backstage and onstage areas during performances;
•liaising with the director, stage personnel and other technical departments (e.g. costume, lighting, sound);
•calling actors for rehearsals and performances;
•during a long run, maintaining and replacing props and costumes as required;
•liaising with resident staff at other performance venues (if touring).
