What does a Stage Manager do?
Stage managers coordinate communication among a production’s creative, performance, and technical teams. They organize rehearsals, maintain the prompt book and production records, track blocking and changes, communicate schedules and notes, coordinate backstage operations, and call technical cues during performances. The details vary by art form, but the central goal is a safe, consistent production from rehearsal through closing.
At a Glance
Many stage managers start out as stagehands or members of a technical crew before working as assistant stage manager (ASM) on one or more productions, and then become stage managers. Because stage managers are top-level positions, moving up means working on bigger, better-paying productions, or switching gears to producing or directing productions. Most stage managers are also technical theater artists and may earn side income by working as lighting technicians, costumers, carpenters, or painters.
Stage managers are freelancers who might work in the theater, dance, and/or live music industries. Aspiring stage managers should learn as much as they can about the various and work as an ASM on one or more productions before pursuing stage manager positions.
- Broad knowledge of technical theater
- Calling cues
- Scheduling
- Personnel and project management
- Written and verbal communication
- Multitasking
- Collaboration
- Good under pressure
Stage managers are famous for their drive, dedication, and multitasking ability. They are people who relish putting in long hours organizing large projects, taking notes, and scheduling groups of people.
Stage managers lead busy, dynamic lives while working on a production. Days and often evenings are spent in rehearsals during the weeks and months leading up to opening night.
